On a summer afternoon in Ellabell, Georgia, a verbal dispute in the parking lot of a convenience store escalated into a fatal encounter that claimed the life of 39-year-old Kevin Jermaine Johnson. The male victim was shot multiple times on July 3, 2019, at the Zip 'N' Foods on Highway 204.
The events leading to the shooting reportedly began with a disagreement that turned into a physical altercation.
Authorities identified two suspects in connection with the incident: Wandell Hills, Jr., then 36, and Tavarus Brown, then 38. According to the investigation, Hills initially drew a handgun during the struggle. The firearm was reportedly exchanged between Hills and Brown during the continuing altercation with Johnson.
Johnson was shot multiple times outside the store before he fled inside, where he was shot several more times. He was pronounced dead at the scene. An off-duty nurse and another individual attempted to render aid and perform CPR until emergency medical services arrived.
Following the shooting, both Hills and Brown fled the location but were apprehended by the Bryan County Sheriff's Office shortly after. Hills was charged with felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Brown was charged with party to the crime of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
In December 2022, the Bryan County Sheriff's Office issued a 'Be On the Lookout' notice for Tavarus Brown, who was wanted on murder charges after he failed to report as court-ordered while out on bond. He was described as considering himself armed and dangerous and had made comments suggesting he would not return to custody willingly. Brown later turned himself in to the authorities. Further details regarding the trials, convictions, or sentences for either Wandell Hills, Jr. or Tavarus Brown have not been made publicly available.
