On the morning of December 10, 2017, 54-year-old African American male Van Alan Johnson was fatally shot in Columbus, Ohio. The incident occurred at his residence on the 2400 block of Ottawa Drive during a domestic dispute involving his daughter, Elyzabeth Johnson, and her boyfriend, 18-year-old Jordyn Preston. According to police reports, an argument escalated when Preston allegedly produced a handgun and fired multiple shots, striking both Van Johnson and Elyzabeth Johnson.
Van Johnson succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital later that day, while his daughter was treated and released.
Van Johnson was a respected community member, known for his active involvement in church activities and his career in civil engineering. Born on May 24, 1963, in Cleveland, Ohio, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Cleveland State University. He held various positions in engineering and inspections, including roles at the Ohio Department of Transportation and Prime Engineering. At the time of his death, he was also serving as the head of ushers, greeters, and security at Victorious Life Christian Center in Columbus. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, remembered for his generosity and commitment to his faith.
Following the shooting, Jordyn Preston fled the scene, prompting a manhunt by law enforcement. On March 30, 2018, U.S. Marshals arrested Preston in Springfield, Ohio, at an apartment off Post Road. He was taken into custody without incident and held at the Clark County Jail, awaiting extradition to Franklin County to face charges related to the murder of Van Johnson. During the arrest, authorities also apprehended 19-year-old Vasaun Black, who was wanted for aggravated robbery in Franklin County.
The tragic death of Van Johnson contributed to a record-high number of homicides in Columbus in 2017, with 143 reported cases. The incident underscored the impact of gun violence within families and communities, leaving a lasting void among those who knew and loved him.
