Claude Dean Deaton, 46, was fatally shot in Byron, Georgia, after a dispute with his longtime roommate on the night of September 30, 2022. Neighbors heard the two arguing outside before the confrontation reportedly continued indoors. Deaton, a CDL truck driver born in Macon who enjoyed working out, music, and watching UFC, came out of the home shortly afterward, dropped his keys and cell phone, and collapsed. He told a neighbor that Rodney Slocumb had shot him. A single bullet struck Deaton in the upper chest; he died on October 1, 2022 despite police and EMS efforts.

Rodney Slocumb, who had lived with Deaton for more than 30 years, was arrested at the scene and charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was called in to assist the Byron Police Department. Deaton is survived by a daughter and a son.

Did anyone who knew Claude or the household notice escalating tensions between the two men before that September night?