Garry Bernard Johnson, a 35-year-old resident of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on May 3, 2017. He was a beloved member of his community, known for his supportive and loving nature. Garry attended local schools in Duval County and was a member of a state championship football team at William M. Raines High School. His sudden death left a void in the lives of his family and friends, who cherished his memory deeply.
The circumstances surrounding Garry Johnson's death were tragic and
violent. On May 2, 2017, Garry was found shot behind a dumpster on West Ashley Street in downtown Jacksonville. The investigation revealed that he had been chased by a man with a handgun, while a Jeep Grand Cherokee trailed behind them. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses captured the harrowing moments leading up to his death, showing Garry attempting to hide behind the dumpster before being fatally shot.
The investigation into Garry Johnson's murder led to the arrest of three individuals. Ryan Nichols, 20, was identified as the shooter and was subsequently sentenced to 40 years in prison for his role in the murder. Daniel DeGuardia, 19, and Holden Dodson, 22, were charged with accessory after the fact. The court proceedings were emotionally charged, with Garry's sister delivering a heartfelt victim impact statement, expressing the family's grief and the lasting impact of the crime on their lives.
During the trial, Nichols claimed self-defense, alleging that Garry was armed. However, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office found no evidence to support this claim. The court ultimately sentenced Nichols to 40 years in prison, with a 10-year minimum mandatory sentence. DeGuardia and Dodson were sentenced to seven years probation each. The judge expressed sympathy for Garry's family, acknowledging the profound loss they had suffered and hoping that the sentences would bring some measure of closure.
Garry Johnson's death and the subsequent legal proceedings highlighted the senseless violence that can shatter lives and communities. His family continues to mourn his loss, remembering him as a loving son, brother, and friend who was taken from them far too soon.
