Athens man charged with murder after stepson found with multiple gunshot wounds

An Athens man is accused of shooting and killing his stepson, according to the Limestone County Sheriff's Office. 

Jail records show 63-year-old Michael Stephen Esposito is charged with murder. 

About 7 p.m. Friday evening, deputies responded to a shooting incident in the 17000 block of Kelley Drive in Athens.

When deputies arrived, they discovered the body of Todd Robert Jennett, who the sheriff's office says had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

Esposito was also at the scene.

After securing the scene, investigators from the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation.

The sheriff's office says preliminary findings indicate Jennett and his stepfather, Esposito, had been involved in a verbal altercation that escalated.

During the dispute, Esposito allegedly produced a firearm and shot Jennett multiple times.

Esposito was taken into custody at the scene without incident and was transported to the Limestone County Jail. He is currently being held pending an Aniah’s Law hearing, which will be scheduled at a later date.