Michigan CEO accused of killing sister over family business dispute
05/30/2023 2:33 pm PDT
STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. (TCD) -- The CEO of a family business is accused of killing his half-sister, the CFO of the company, over an alleged dispute last week.
According to a news release from the Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, on Friday, May 26, Zachary Holston III left the family business and walked toward his car when the victim, her husband, and her daughter approached him. Holston and his half-sister, identified by WDIV-TV as Rita Evans, allegedly got into a verbal dispute.
Holston reportedly entered his car as the three family members approached the passenger side, and a physical altercation ensued over "paperwork located in the vehicle." Holston and Evans allegedly pulled out firearms and exchanged gunfire. As a result, the victim was struck and transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
On Tuesday, May 30, Holston was arraigned in Shelby District Court on charges of second-degree murder and felony firearm. His bond was set at $500,000, and he will have to wear a GPS tether with home confinement if released. He also must undergo a mental health evaluation and have no contact with the victim’s family or business.
Holston is scheduled to appear in court again on June 8.
In a statement obtained by WDIV, the family business, Kath Khemicals, said, "We are fully cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation of this regrettable incident. At this time, we are not permitted to comment further."
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said, "This is not the way for family to settle family business. Gun violence will never be tolerated in Macomb County. All disputes must be settled civilly between parties in or out of the courtroom, not on the streets. The loss of a life is always a profound tragedy, and it is especially disheartening when it occurs within the bonds of family."
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