SURPRISE, Ariz. — A man told police he killed his twin brother on Wednesday because he was in fear for his own life.
It happened at a home near Greenway Road and Cotton Lane in Surprise.
When police arrived, they detained 58-year-old Michael Leone and found his brother, 58-year-old Nicholas Leone, inside deceased on the living room floor just after noon, according to the Surprise Police Department.
In a 911 call, Michael Leone told police his brother had shot at him, stabbed him and held a knife to his face. That's when he returned fire, killing Nicholas Leone, police said.
Nicholas Leone had an order of protection against Michael Leone, preventing Michael from contacting him. Nicholas Leone had been granted exclusive use of and possession of the home they had shared, police said.
Michael Leone was homeless, and his brother Nicholas Leone had invited him to the home despite the protective order. Nicholas Leone then asked Michael Leone to leave the home several times.
Michael Leone told police his brother would regularly threaten him with a gun and the two had done cocaine together in the days leading up to the shooting.
Michael Leone was previously released from Maricopa County Jail pending charges related to speeding, unlawful flight and reckless driving, police said.
He's facing second-degree murder charges among others.
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.