Uhon Trumanna Johnson, a 31-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on October 27, 2015, in Asheville, North Carolina. The incident occurred at Pisgah View Apartments, where Johnson was found suffering from a gunshot wound. He was promptly transported to Mission Hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries. The Asheville Police Department responded to the scene and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The primary suspect
in the case was identified as Pierre Lamont Griffin II, a 22-year-old African American male from Asheville. Griffin was known to Johnson, and the two were acquaintances. Following the shooting, Griffin fled the scene in the victim's vehicle, leading to a multi-agency pursuit that spanned three counties. The chase began when a Buncombe County Sheriff's deputy spotted Griffin's vehicle at a Citgo gas station on Brevard Road. Despite attempts to stop him, Griffin continued to evade law enforcement, even after his vehicle's tires were flattened by stop sticks.
The pursuit eventually ended on Interstate 26 in Polk County, where the North Carolina Highway Patrol used a precision immobilization technique to bring Griffin's vehicle to a halt. Griffin then fled on foot, pointing a gun at pursuing officers. In response, Henderson County deputies shot Griffin, who was subsequently taken into custody and transported to Spartanburg Regional Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Griffin faced multiple charges, including first-degree murder, reckless driving, felony larceny, and obtaining property under false pretense.
The investigation into Johnson's death revealed that Griffin had a history of criminal activity, with outstanding warrants for his arrest prior to the shooting. The case garnered significant attention due to the violent nature of the crime and the subsequent high-speed chase. The Asheville Police Department, along with other law enforcement agencies, worked diligently to piece together the events leading up to Johnson's death and ensure that justice was served.
In the aftermath of the incident, Johnson's family and friends mourned the loss of a beloved individual. Johnson was remembered as a kind and caring person who had a positive impact on those around him. His death left a void in the lives of many, particularly his daughter, who adored him. The community of Asheville came together to support Johnson's family during this difficult time, holding a funeral service at Nazareth First Missionary Baptist Church to honor his memory.
