WHITE LAKE, Michigan — Tragedy struck in White Lake, Michigan, on the early morning of July 8, 2025, when 17-year-old Sivan Wilson was shot and killed during a garage break-in. Dayton Knapton, 24, the homeowner, has been charged with manslaughter, sparking intense debate over Michigan’s controversial “Stand Your Ground” law.
What Happened
Authorities report that Sivan Wilson and a group of mostly teenagers entered a garage in White Lake shortly after 1 a.m. on July 8. The homeowner, Dayton Knapton, who had previously experienced multiple break-ins, received an alert from his home security system and responded with a firearm.
Knapton fired two shots through a windowless garage door, striking Sivan. Prosecutors allege that as the group ran away, Knapton fired five more shots, reloaded, and returned outside, further escalating the incident.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized the severity of Knapton’s actions:
“This defendant fired outside his home at fleeing persons. His actions not only took a life but potentially endangered the surrounding community by firing his weapon into the night.”
Who Was Sivan Wilson / Background
Sivan Wilson, 17, was a teenager with her whole life ahead of her. Her father, Shawn Madden, shared the family’s heartbreak:
“Sivan was running away and got shot. We are devastated.”
The incident has drawn national attention as a case testing the boundaries of self-defense laws in Michigan. “Stand Your Ground” statutes allow homeowners to defend themselves without retreating, but critics argue this case may illustrate potential abuses of the law.
Case Details and Legal Context
Knapton, 24, faces a manslaughter charge after prosecutors determined that his use of lethal force extended beyond what Michigan law permits for self-defense. The case raises key questions about the limits of “Stand Your Ground” protections when force is used against fleeing individuals or outside the immediate threat.
Legal experts note that firing into areas where people are escaping can shift the situation from self-defense to criminal liability, especially when shots endanger bystanders or exceed the immediate threat.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The shooting has ignited passionate debate online and in the White Lake community. Social media users have discussed the balance between self-defense rights and criminal accountability, with hashtags like #JusticeForSivan and #StandYourGround trending.
Many have expressed outrage over the fact that the victim was a 17-year-old teen, highlighting concerns about gun safety and homeowner response in situations involving minors.
Official Statements and Next Steps
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald stated that the investigation is ongoing, and that the charge of manslaughter reflects the seriousness of firing at fleeing individuals. Law enforcement officials continue to review evidence and eyewitness accounts to determine whether additional charges may apply.
The case is expected to test Michigan’s “Stand Your Ground” law in court and may influence future legislation regarding homeowner rights and self-defense boundaries.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
