A 21-year-old man, Breylon Roberts, has been charged with first-degree premeditated homicide over the death of his 23-year-old older brother, Trey Cameron Roberts, at their family home in Southfield, Michigan.
Police said the incident happened on Monday, October 19, after years of alleged conflict between the siblings.
Investigators believe Breylon had become resentful of Trey’s achievements at work and the respect he received from family members and friends.
Security footage from a neighbouring property reportedly recorded gunshots before showing Breylon leaving the family home with their dog.
Their 17-year-old sister later returned home and discovered what had happened. She then contacted emergency services.
Police arrested Breylon and recovered evidence they said linked him to the incident.
Speaking at a press conference, Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said conversations with relatives and friends pointed to jealousy over Trey’s success as a possible reason for the brothers’ long-running dispute.
“The conflict was reportedly related to the perceptions of the victim having greater success,” Barren explained.
The police chief likened the case to the biblical story of Cain and Abel. He also urged families to deal with serious disagreements before they grow into something worse.
Breylon has pleaded not guilty to the charge and was denied bail.
