JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The man accused of killing his cousin in Jackson two years ago was found guilty by a jury.

Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens said Carleton Haynes, 59, was found guilty of first-degree murder and arson in the death of his cousin, Melvin McNair, 58.

On June 14, 2023, Jackson police responded to a home on West County Line Road after reports of a house fire. They found McNair lying in the doorway at the back of the home. He had been shot in the face with a sawed off shotgun, and the lower part of his body had been burned.

Investigators said Haynes, who had been staying with his cousin, shot McNair during a verbal and physical fight. According to witnesses, Haynes shouted, “I told you not to play with me!”

Police said Haynes then poured gasoline on McNair and throughout the home before setting both on fire.

The following morning, Jackson police were called back to the location where they discovered Haynes sitting on the front porch. He was arrested at the scene.

After the guilty verdict, Haynes was sentenced to life in prison plus 20 years to be served consecutively under the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC).