Smith County Argument Turned Deadly

SMITH COUNTY — One person is dead after a family argument turned violent. According to Smith County authorities, it happened just before 2:45 Sunday afternoon in the 15,000 block of Dry Creek Road when Audy Douglas Murphy, 39, began arguing with his mother, Nanette Kirton, 62. Murphy’s stepfather, William Wesley Kirton, 67, found him standing over Mrs. Kirton, yelling at her. Mr. Kirton then retrieved his handgun and warned Murphy to stop the abuse or he would shoot. Authorities said Murphy turned toward Mr. Kirton and began coming at him aggressively, telling his stepdad to “shoot me”. Mr. Kirton fired one shot with his 9 millimeter into Murphy’s chest. He died at the scene.

Authorities tell our news partner KETK, they have responded to the residence 31 times to deal with the son. Officials say Murphy suffers from mental illness and was off his medications at the time of the shooting. He is also known to abuse illegal substances, and had a pending assault. Murphy also has a criminal history of assault, terroristic threat, criminal mischief, unlawful carrying weapon, DWI and vehicle theft. Deputies did not arrest Mr. Kirton. They believe he killed Murphy in protection for himself and his wife. The case will be presented to a grand jury for review.