By ZEINAB NAJM
Times-Herald Newspapers
HEIGHTS — Gary Earl Oliver of Dearborn Heights was charged with first degree murder after he allegedly shot and killed his 60-year-old neighbor John Kennedy.
Oliver, 65, was arranged June 7 in 34th District Court in Romulus. Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced the murder charge as well as a charge for felony firearm against Oliver.
On the night of June 3, Oliver allegedly shot and killed Kennedy at a house in the 6400 block of Fairwood.
Police said they have been called to the houses of both men multiple times and the dispute between the two neighbors was on going.
Dearborn Heights Detective Sgt. Matthew Larabell explained the incident that led to Kennedy’s death. He said Oliver complained that Kennedy was spraying water under the shingles of his house, picking at his locks and stealing money.
On May 29 and June 2 an ADT Security technician was installing an alarm system when Oliver told the technician he would “take matters into his own hands and to remember his name because he was going to see it on television,” Larabell explained.
Larabell said neighbors saw Oliver standing over Kennedy as Kennedy yelled, “No! No! No!” before Oliver allegedly shot and killed Kennedy.
Larabell also said Oliver walked away after he realized Kennedy wasn’t moving, but returned shortly after to kick then shoot Kennedy in the head before walking into his house.
Oliver was denied bond and a preliminary examination is scheduled for 9 a.m. June 24 in 34th District Court.
(Zeinab Najm can be reached at [email protected])