Attorney General's News Release

July 6, 2011

Attorney General Koster announces Oregon County man convicted of murder, arson

Jefferson City, Mo. – Attorney General Chris Koster said today an Oregon County jury has found Michael Amick, 35, guilty of 2nd degree murder and 2nd degree arson in the 2008 shooting death of his wife’s grandmother, Leona Maxine Vaughn.

Koster said Vaughn died from six .22 caliber gunshot wounds to her head. Amick shot her at her residence, then set the house on fire to cover up the murder. Amick’s motive in killing his wife’s grandmother was that he was repaying a credit life loan for Vaughn that he would not have to repay upon her death.

“Though nothing can bring back the victim of this senseless crime,” Koster said, “I’m pleased that our office was able to see that justice is being served.”

Judge J. Max Price has set Amick’s sentencing for August 15. He faces 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment for the murder and up to 7 years for arson.