Mother’s Nightmare: Teen Sons Charged in Fatal Shooting of Family Friend
Tyler Chaffin (left) and Eli Chaffin (right) – Source: San Juan County Sheriff’s Office via Mediaite
Case Summary
In a tragic case of jealousy and violence near Aztec, New Mexico, brothers Tyler Chaffin (25) and Eli Chaffin (21) were sentenced in 2024 for the 2022 shooting death of 37-year-old William Johnson. Tyler beat Johnson while Eli delivered fatal shots, claiming self-defense. The incident stemmed from a dispute involving Sierra Collins (Johnson’s ex-girlfriend), who allegedly orchestrated the confrontation. Collins died in custody in 2024 from a medical issue before trial. Tyler received 15 years for second-degree murder; Eli received 6 years for voluntary manslaughter.
A Fatal Confrontation Over a Car—and Jealousy
FLORA VISTA, N.M. – What began as a trip to retrieve a car turned deadly on July 24, 2022, when brothers Tyler and Eli Chaffin confronted William Johnson at his home on County Road 3400 near Aztec. The encounter escalated into violence, leaving Johnson dead from gunshot wounds in a case prosecutors linked to a scorned relationship.
Sierra Collins, Johnson’s ex-girlfriend who had been staying with the Chaffins’ mother Tiffany, asked the brothers to accompany her to pick up her vehicle from Johnson’s property. Tensions were high—Collins had reportedly sent threatening messages to Johnson and developed a relationship with Tyler.
The Shooting and Immediate Aftermath
Surveillance video captured a white SUV pulling up, with two men exiting and opening fire. Johnson was found in a grassy field outside his home. The brothers fled but were quickly identified through vehicle records and witness statements.
Investigation and Charges
Detectives uncovered threatening texts from Collins and her role in luring the group to the scene. All three faced first-degree murder charges initially. The brothers claimed self-defense, saying Johnson reached for a weapon during a fight started by Tyler.
Plea Deals and Family Outrage
In a heated 2024 hearing, Tyler pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and felon-in-possession charges (15 years prison + parole). Eli pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter (6 years prison + parole). Johnson’s family expressed fury over the reduced charges, accusing prosecutors of leniency.
Collins’ Death and Lingering Questions
Sierra Collins died in September 2024 from a serious medical issue while awaiting trial, ending her case. Tiffany Chaffin, the brothers’ mother, maintained their innocence throughout, calling the incident “unfortunate.” Johnson’s family continues to grieve a father taken too soon.
This case serves as a stark reminder of how jealousy and misplaced loyalty can spiral into irreversible tragedy.
If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship violence or jealousy-related threats:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
Text “START” to 88788
Crisis Support:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
San Juan County Non-Emergency: (505) 334-6622
DISCLAIMER: All information presented in this article is based on publicly available court documents, police reports, official statements, and credible news sources. Tyler and Eli Chaffin were convicted via plea deals in 2024. Crime Recap makes no independent claims beyond what has been established through legal proceedings. For our complete legal disclaimer, please visit our Legal Disclaimer page.
