Clint Allen Stephens, a 48-year-old man from Jerusalem, Ohio, tragically passed away on December 12, 2016. He was born on October 28, 1968, in Barnesville, Ohio. Clint was a heavy equipment operator for Westmoreland Coal Company and a member of the American Legion Post 168. He is survived by his father, Delmas Stephens, and three children: Heather, Derek, and Trystan Stephens.
The cause of Clint Stephens' death was a fatal roadside shooting.
The incident occurred along Ohio 800 near the Belmont/Monroe county line. Harold Wayne Johnson Jr., a 46-year-old man from Lewisville, was accused of the shooting. Johnson met Stephens on the side of the road, exited his vehicle, and shot Stephens while he was still inside his car. Shortly afterward, Johnson was arrested by Monroe County sheriff’s deputies.
In June 2017, Johnson entered a guilty plea to aggravated murder with a firearm specification. Belmont County Common Pleas Judge John Vavra sentenced Johnson to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 20 years. Johnson must first serve three years for the firearm specification, meaning he will not be eligible for parole for 23 years. The judge noted Johnson's history of violent, irresponsible misconduct and alcohol abuse, which worsened his inability to control his rage.
The sentencing hearing included statements from Beth Kirk, a friend of the victim’s family, who spoke about the lasting sense of loss created by Stephens’ death. Public Defender Frank Pierce acknowledged the murder's impact but asked the judge to consider Johnson’s remorse and evidence of long-term mental illness. Johnson expressed regret for his actions during the hearing.
The case has left a lasting impact on the Stephens family and the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of violent acts and the importance of addressing mental health and substance abuse issues.
