Christopher Demyen
After a two-hour hearing, an Acton man was ordered to stand trial on murder charges Tuesday in a Lancaster courtroom at Los Angeles County Superior Court.
Scott Shipley, 56, of Acton, is accused of first degree murder in the May 15 shooting death of 39-year-old Christopher Demyen, also of Acton.
“He’s charged with a single count of murder and there’s also an allegation that he personally discharged a firearm causing great bodily injury or death,” said Tom Trainor, deputy district attorney for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, in an interview after Shipley first pleaded. “There’s no offer being discussed.”
Demyen was shot once in the chest, in front of the home of Fernando Franco, who lives on the 1500 block of Eagle Butte Road.
Shipley allegedly became upset when an Acton Water Co. truck blocked the path to his home.
Shipley then called Demyen, who owns the water company, according to evidence presented during the preliminary hearing.
The driver of the truck told Shipley that he would be leaving in about 20 minutes; however, Shipley left the scene with his daughter, his vehicle blocking the Acton Water Co. truck, according to court testimony.Google Maps of Acton shooting location
An argument ensued between Demyen and Shipley after Demyen arrived on the scene.
Shipley allegedly pushed Demyen, a small fight ensued and during that fight, Shipley pulled out a gun and fired one shot into Demyen’s chest, according to evidence presented by the prosecution during the preliminary hearing.
Despite the aid of paramedics, Demyen died at the scene of the alleged fight.
Shipley pleaded not guilty when he was initially charged July 24.
Judge Christopher Estes denied a motion to dismiss the case, and a motion to reduce bail.
Shipley is due back in court for arraignment Sept. 20 when he will again plead to the charges.
Shipley is being represented by Adam Koppekin, who could not be reached for comment as of this story’s publication.
Shipley is being held on $2 million bail – $1 million for the murder charge and another $1 million because a gun was used in commission of the crime.
If Shipley is found guilty of first- or second-degree murder, he faces a maximum of life in prison.
Acton Man to Stand Trial for Murder of Water Company Owner
