Charge upgraded to 1st-degree murder in Big Sandy shooting

BENTON COUNTY, Tenn. — An accused gunman in a deadly shooting in Big Sandy sees his charge upgraded this week to first-degree murder.

George Burns

George Burns was initially charged with second-degree murder in the Nov. 16, 2015, shooting death of Michael Nuzzo.

Burns was indicted this week on a first-degree murder charge after further investigation by the Benton County Sheriff’s Department led authorities to upgrade the charges, according to District Attorney General Matt Stowe and the sheriff’s department.

Investigators said the two were fighting in a gas station parking lot when Burns pulled a gun and shot Nuzzo in the chest.

Burns is expected to be arraigned Monday in Benton County Circuit Court.