Tequila "Sugar Momma" Larkins, aged 29, was the owner of the Sparkle City laundromat in Perrine, Florida. On the evening of March 11, 1989, she was tragically murdered at her place of business. According to court records, Larkins had locked the front door of the laundromat around 9 p.m. while some customers were still inside finishing their laundry. Shortly after, a man approached the locked door asking for change. Larkins, in an attempt to assist, unlocked the door, allowing the man to enter.
This individual, later identified as Ronnie Johnson, began arguing with Larkins, which quickly escalated into a physical altercation. Johnson struck Larkins multiple times in the face, causing her to fall. He then pulled out a gun and shot her, resulting in her death.
The investigation into Larkins' murder led to the arrest of Ronnie Johnson. Witnesses at the scene, including Jerry Briggs, who was present with his wife, identified Johnson as the assailant. Briggs had initially identified Johnson in a photographic lineup and later confirmed his identification in court. Johnson was apprehended on April 1, 1989, and subsequently confessed to the crime. However, his defense attempted to suppress the confession, arguing that it was obtained improperly. Despite these efforts, the confession was admitted as evidence during the trial.
Johnson was charged with first-degree murder and armed burglary. The trial revealed that Johnson had a history of violent behavior and had previously been involved in criminal activities. The jury found him guilty of both charges, and he was sentenced to death. Johnson's conviction and sentence were upheld on appeal, with the Florida Supreme Court affirming the trial court's decisions.
The case of Tequila Larkins' murder highlights the brutal nature of the crime and the swift justice that followed. The legal proceedings were marked by detailed testimonies from witnesses and law enforcement officers, as well as Johnson's own admission of guilt. The tragic loss of Larkins left a lasting impact on the Perrine community, and her memory continues to be honored by those who knew her.
