DETROIT – A Detroit man was arrested and charged with allegedly shooting and killing a 27-year-old Marine veteran.
Christian Epps, from Detroit, was reported missing on Oct. 30, 2025. He was found dead on Nov. 3 in a vacant lot on Fleming Street.
Michael Lovell-J Knox, 39, also from Detroit, was charged with second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, mutilation of a dead body and felony firearm.
According to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, Epps and Knox were physically fighting on Oct. 30 in the 19300 block of Fleming Street, leading to Knox allegedly shooting Epps, killing him.
Knox is also accused of moving Epps’ body to another location.
On Nov. 17, after further investigation, Detroit police went to a home in the 12100 block of Glenfield Avenue, where Knox barricaded himself inside. After a two-hour standoff, he was eventually arrested.
Knox was arraigned on Nov. 21 for his charges.
Epps’ family described him as loyal and driven, someone who lived by the Marine motto. Epps was known for his generosity and courage, and was a beloved Marine, DJ and church volunteer who often cared for the homeless.
Local 4’s Erika Erickson spoke to Epps’ family on Nov. 4 when police were still searching for his killer. You can watch the full story here --> Family demands justice after Detroit veteran found shot dead in field