A family dispute over a barbecue payment escalated tragically into violence, resulting in a Queens man being sentenced to a significant prison term for murder and assault. District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that 41-year-old Durran Morgan has been sentenced to 50 years to life after he shot and killed his 25-year-old nephew and injured his niece at a family gathering in 2023. According to a report from Queens District Attorney's Office, Morgan became involved in an altercation which ultimately led to him firing 10 shots.
"Durran Morgan became enraged over food payment during a family barbecue and then settled the dispute with a gun," DA Katz stated. The shooting that took place on May 27, 2023, has carried Morgan to half a century behind bars, as the justice system responds firmly to the senseless act of violence. The DA hoped that, "this sentence helps the family continue to heal and recover from this tragedy," as per the Queens District Attorney's Office.
The incident, which occurred at the family home in St. Albans, spiraled out of control when Morgan was pushed out of the property by his nephew, Chevaughn Millings, and another guest over the food payment disagreement. Morgan then re-entered the house and confronted Millings, pulling out a gun and shooting him multiple times in the abdomen and legs, resulting in Millings' death. Morgan's 20-year-old niece also sustained injuries from the gunfire.
Following the altercation, Morgan fled to Georgia but later returned to New York to surrender himself to the authorities. During the trial, Morgan testified on his own behalf, claiming he had been a United States Marine and combat veteran. This claim was disproved under cross-examination, showing he had no military record. The prosecution, led by Assistant District Attorney Gabriel J. Reale with the assistance of Assistant District Attorney Erica Silverman, managed to secure the conviction for murder in the second degree, assault in the first degree, and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree.
Morgan's conviction comes after a jury trial before Queens Supreme Court Justice Michael Aloise. Justice Aloise handed down a today's sentence, ensuring that Morgan will face serious repercussions for his actions on that fateful day.
