HIGHLAND TWP. (WWJ) -- An Oakland County man who told police he accidently shot his fiancée while cleaning his gun has been convicted of first-degree premeditated murder.
The Oakland County Prosecutor's Office said a jury on Thursday found 23-year old Michael Webb guilty as charged, after a trial that lasted three days.
Prosecutors said Webb shot Rachel Wooten at close range in their Highland Township home, on April 15, 2025.
She had texted a family member that she was afraid for her life earlier on the day she was shot.
The couple's 6-month-old baby was found inside the home, unharmed.
“Michael Webb executed Rachel Wooten in front of their child, then called 911 and lied about it. He will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison, as he should," said Prosecutor Karen McDonald, in a statement.
“While this verdict holds him accountable, nothing can bring back Rachel Wooten or change the fact that her child will grow up without a mother. Too many women and children are living in fear of domestic violence without the resources or support to escape. We must do more to protect women and prevent future tragedies like Rachel’s murder.”
Webb will be sentenced to mandatory life in prison without parole at his sentencing, set for Oct. 7 in Sixth Circuit Court.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day to provide tools and support for domestic violence survivors. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for help.
He told a 911 operator it was accidental, while cleaning his gun
He told a 911 operator it was accidental, while cleaning his gun
