On July 18, 2014, Alexander Johnson III, a 25-year-old resident of Long Beach, California, was tragically killed in a gang-related shooting. The incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. in the 2100 block of Earl Avenue. According to police reports, Johnson was standing outside when a dark-colored vehicle approached. A verbal confrontation ensued between Johnson and the driver, who then produced a handgun and fired multiple shots, striking Johnson in the upper body.
Despite being transported to a local hospital in serious condition, Johnson was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Long Beach Police Department launched an investigation into the shooting, treating it as a gang-related homicide. Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male driving a dark-colored vehicle. The investigation led to the arrest of 21-year-old Jamar Welch, also a resident of Long Beach, on July 27, 2014. Welch was charged with one count of murder, with additional weapon and gang-related allegations. He was scheduled for arraignment on August 1, 2014.
The case drew significant attention from the community and law enforcement, highlighting the ongoing issues of gang violence in the area. Detectives Scott Lasch and Donald Goodman from the Long Beach Police Homicide Division were assigned to the case, urging anyone with information to come forward. The investigation remained active, with authorities seeking further details to ensure justice for Johnson and his family.
