In the early morning hours of August 20, 2025, a dispute in a Johnson City, Tennessee, motel parking lot tragically escalated, ending the life of 37-year-old Justin Sturdivant. A White/Caucasian male, Sturdivant was a long-time resident of Johnson City, having been raised there after his birth in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a dedicated employee of Pepsi Cola for over two decades and was known for his love of the outdoors, often enjoying fishing, camping, and hiking.
The fatal encounter
occurred around 2 a.m. in the 2400 block of North Roan Street, where an argument between Sturdivant and another individual reportedly turned into a physical altercation. In the ensuing violence, Sturdivant suffered multiple gunshot wounds. When officers from the Johnson City Police Department arrived at the scene following a 'shots fired' call, they found Sturdivant in the parking lot. Despite any efforts to render aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, police arrested 45-year-old Jacob McGlone of Scottsboro, Alabama. McGlone was taken into custody at the scene and has since been charged with first-degree murder. The Johnson City Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division is continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly confrontation.
Justin Sturdivant is survived by his mother, two sons, and numerous siblings and other family members. His family held a funeral service to celebrate his life on August 31, 2025, at the Appalachian Funeral Home.
