It kind of crushed me,
Marlon Williams told News4JAX, describing the heavy reality of losing a close friend and musical collaborator. That loss unfolded Wednesday afternoon when 35-year-old Jonathon Johnson was killed in a shooting near a North Jacksonville Sunoco gas station.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, two men were walking from the gas station near Hart and Barnett streets when gunfire erupted Wednesday afternoon. Responding officers found both men suffering from gunshot wounds and transported them to a hospital, where Johnson died and the second man survived. Investigators stated that a group of people was nearby during the incident, though authorities have not yet determined whether the victims knew anyone in the group or if an altercation preceded the shooting.
Williams Views Johnson as Family
Explaining their bond, Williams noted that they originally connected through their shared love of music, eventually forming a music group together and growing close enough that Williams viewed Johnson as family.
The last time I saw him, he was happy,
Williams said. We had plans on just growing and living, not none of this stuff right now.
Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Seeks Shooting Suspects
Following the violence, community members spoke out about neighborhood safety. One witness reported hearing roughly 15 gunshots, describing the event as a sad situation,
while another resident suggested that additional policing and positive community influences could help decrease local crime.
As of Thursday, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office had not announced any arrests or released information regarding a possible suspect. Authorities encourage anyone possessing information about the shooting to reach out to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office at 904-630-0500 or contact Crime Stoppers to leave an anonymous tip.
Additional Northside Shooting Investigation
Police believe everyone involved in the shooting has been detained. Multiple people have been detained and are currently being interviewed together with more information,
JSO Sgt. Saunders said. Based on what we know, although we are so early in investigating, we believe all parties are accounted for and that there is no threat to the community.
