In Columbia, South Carolina, a domestic dispute escalated to a fatal conclusion for 33-year-old Jermaine A. Johnson on the evening of Saturday, February 21, 2015. The male entered the Schoolhouse Road apartment of his ex-girlfriend shortly after she arrived home, leading to a physical altercation.
During the struggle, the woman reported that she initially grabbed a knife and cut Johnson's hand.
When he dropped his handgun, she picked it up and, fearing for her life, shot him multiple times in the chest. The woman immediately called 911 to report the shooting.
When Columbia Police Department officers arrived at the scene, they found Johnson with multiple gunshot wounds. The Richland County Coroner later confirmed that these injuries were the cause of his death.
In the subsequent investigation, it was revealed that Johnson had a documented history of domestic violence allegations. His ex-girlfriend was in the process of obtaining an order of protection against him and had previously met with police. After a thorough review of the evidence, statements, and in consultation with the 5th Circuit Solicitor's Office, investigators determined the shooting was a justifiable homicide. As a result, the woman who shot Johnson acted in self-defense and did not face any charges in connection with his death.
