Woman describes hearing fatal shots

Bill Gang

Thursday, Jan. 14, 1999 | 11:19 a.m.

The niece of the woman known as the "Candy Lady" told how she was startled by the booming sounds of several shots being fired near her house and she called her aunt in an attempt to determine the cause.

Alfreda Russell testified Wednesday that there was no answer at the home next door that was shared by 86-year-old Flora Johnson and 71-year-old Azel Evans.

Both, Russell quickly learned, had been murdered during an apparent robbery in the home at 832 Blankenship Ave., near H Street.

Russell was one of only two witnesses at the first day of the preliminary hearing for two teenagers charged in the slaying. The hearing was then recessed until Jan. 22 by Justice of the Peace Jennifer Toggliatti to give a newly appointed defense attorney time to study the case.

Shauntay Weaton, 15, and DeAngelo Michell, 16, each face two counts of first-degree murder. Despite being juveniles, they are charged as adults, because Nevada law dictates that minors charged with murder automatically are certified as adults.

Neighbors saw two teens running from the home and called 911 after hearing the shots from a large-caliber pistol. Weaton and Michell were arrested minutes later, and a pistol was found under a nearby tree.

Michell could face the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder. Weaton could not, because he is under 16. Police have said they believe Weaton was the triggerman.

Deputy District Attorney L.J. O'Neal has not indicated whether the death penalty will be sought.

Johnson was called the "Candy Lady," because she sold candy, sodas and ice cream to neighborhood children, although at age 86, she was half-blind and barely able to walk with the use of a cane.

Evans lived with Johnson, according to prosecutors.

Dr. Sheldon Green, chief deputy Clark County Medical Examiner, testified at Wednesday's hearing that Evans suffered four gunshot wounds, with the fatal bullet hitting him in the chest.

While Metro Police said that robbery appears to be the motive, they have not said if the boys had any money when they were arrested.