In the quiet community of Marcellus, Michigan, a prearranged meeting on November 15, 2018, took a dark and violent turn, ending in the death of 42-year-old Kevin Johnson. What was purported to be a methamphetamine deal was, in reality, a meticulously planned armed robbery that ultimately escalated to murder. The events of that day were set into motion by Theron Phone Hunt, who orchestrated the fake drug sale with the intention of robbing Johnson.
To carry out his plan, Hunt enlisted the
help of two accomplices, Kayla Cheney and Tyler McNeil. The trio arranged to meet Johnson at a residence, and upon his arrival, the situation quickly devolved. Hunt brandished a shotgun, pointing it at Johnson as he demanded money. The scene was one of chaos and violence as the co-conspirators used mace on and bound the homeowner. In the midst of the robbery, Hunt handed the shotgun to one of his accomplices.
As the robbery progressed, a struggle ensued between Johnson and his assailants. It was during this physical altercation that the shotgun, now in the hands of Kayla Cheney, was discharged, fatally wounding Kevin Johnson. An autopsy would later confirm that Johnson's death was the result of a gunshot wound. While the chaos unfolded inside the residence, Hunt proceeded to Johnson's truck where he threatened another individual before taking money and a cell phone.
Following the deadly encounter, Hunt and his accomplices fled the scene. In an attempt to cover their tracks, Hunt directed the disposal of the murder weapon and the burning of their clothes. However, the investigation into Johnson's death quickly led law enforcement to the three individuals. Stolen items and Johnson's phone were discovered, linking Hunt to the crime. Both Kayla Cheney and Tyler McNeil cooperated with prosecutors, entering into plea deals in exchange for their testimony against Hunt.
Theron Phone Hunt was arrested and stood trial for his role in the death of Kevin Johnson. He was ultimately convicted by a jury of first-degree felony murder for his part in aiding and abetting the killing. In addition to the murder charge, Hunt was found guilty on two counts of armed robbery, unlawful imprisonment, and second-degree criminal sexual conduct, along with a felony-firearm charge. As a result of his convictions, Theron Phone Hunt was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
