A Labor Day barbecue in Hazel Park turned deadly after an argument over how chicken should be cooked escalated into a stabbing, according to police.
Kenneth Erwin Thomas, 60, was at his home in the 1600 block of East Granet Avenue on Sept. 7 when he and his girlfriend were hosting a barbecue. Police said Thomas became involved in an argument with his girlfriend’s brother, Cleo Lawson, 62, of Detroit.
The disagreement centered on how the chicken was being prepared, investigators said. The argument eventually became physical, and Lawson allegedly stabbed Thomas.
First responders attempted to treat Thomas, but he later died from his injuries, according to police.
Lawson was taken into custody and later charged with second-degree murder. He was arraigned on Sept. 10 and denied bond, according to officials. He remains held in the Oakland County Jail while awaiting his next court appearance.
Police have not disclosed the type of weapon allegedly used in the stabbing.
The case remains under investigation. Authorities have not indicated that they are searching for additional suspects, and earlier police statements said there was no ongoing threat to the public.
The allegations against Lawson are accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
