On the morning of January 8, 2026, the Duluth Police Department took into custody 32-year-old Branden King in connection with the murder of Chazz Toney, which occurred back in October 2025. The community is still grappling with the aftermath, sending condolences to Toney's loved ones during this period of mourning. This development comes after a three-month investigation spearheaded by local authorities into the shooting that claimed Toney's life.
The fatal incident was first reported on October 10, 2025, when officers responded to the scene of a shooting at approximately 12:25 am on the 200 block of West 3rd Street, according to a Duluth Police Department press release. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered Toney's body, bearing the marks of a lethal gunshot. At that time, identity and motives were shrouded in mystery; the pieces of the puzzle were only now beginning to fall into place months after the sirens and the squad cars had vacated West 3rd Street.
While the case continued its course over the months, the Duluth Police made a plea to the public, seeking help from residents with surveillance systems in an effort to uncover any leads or evidence that could illuminate the circumstances of the chilling occurrence. The update on the investigation came promptly on January 8th, revealing that King is now facing pending charges for 2nd Degree Homicide in relation to Toney's death.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details concerning the arrest of King, nor the specific evidence that led to his apprehension. What remains evident is the persistence of the Duluth Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit in pursuing justice for Toney. As the community awaits the unfolding of this tragic story, the police officials urge anyone with information that could further assist the ongoing investigation to contact them at 218-730-5050, in hopes that further clarity can be shed on the events that culminated in that early October morning.
