A homicide investigation is underway in Canton after police discovered a man dead on the side of a street early Friday morning.
According to Canton Police Chief Otha Brown, officers responded to a call on Trolio Street, near the old Nichols Middle School, where they found 75-year-old Anderson Walker lying deceased.
Investigators believe Walker was involved in a confrontation with 56-year-old Marvin Austin shortly before his death. Details about what led to the altercation have not yet been made public, but police say the encounter turned deadly.
Austin was taken into custody later in the day and is now facing a murder charge in connection with the incident. Authorities say additional charges may follow as the investigation develops and once the results of an autopsy are finalized.
Chief Brown said officers are working to piece together a timeline of events leading up to the fatal encounter. “This case is still very much active, and our investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses,” he noted.
The incident has left residents in the Canton community shaken, particularly given its proximity to a school property. Police have not indicated that there is any ongoing threat to the public.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with knowledge about the altercation or the events leading to Walker’s death to come forward. Community members can contact the Canton Police Department at 601-859-2121 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS.
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