Monticello Man Is Charged in Murder

A Monticello young man is among three arrested for a home invasion and murder in Newton County.

Garrett Blackwell of Monticello is charged with home invasion (1st degree), murder, and aggravated assault in connection with the murder of Randall Whitley, 39, of Newborn.

On May 5, Mr. Whitley was reportedly involved in a home invasion involving Margie Love, 35, of Covington; Anthony McDonald, 18, also of Covington, and Mr. Blackwell.

According to the release from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, the four offenders (Love, McDonald, Blackwell, and Whitley) arrived at a residential home on Hwy. 162 in Covington about 8:22 p.m. to confront Love’s ex-partner, then they proceeded to enter the residence without permission. A fight commenced between the offenders and one of the victims.

Mr. Whitley was stabbed during the fight. He was taken to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Ms. Love and Mr. McDonald face the same charges as Mr. Blackwell.