Derek Lamont Johnson was a beloved family man known as the life of the party. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on January 14, 1982, to Amos and Shirley Johnson, Derek was an outgoing and cherished member of his community. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. It was there he met the love of his life, Sharrika Ashley, whom he married on April 23, 2011. Together, they were blessed with two sons.
Derek loved spending time with his family and friends and was known for his vibrant personality. Professionally, he worked as a case manager and care coordinator in Little Rock.
He leaves behind his wife, Sharrika; two sons, Reginald Brasfield and Derren Johnson; his parents, Amos and Shirley Johnson; his grandmother, Matha McNeely; a sister, Stephanie Johnson; and three brothers, Anthony, Akili, and Charles Johnson. His memory is also cherished by numerous aunts, nephews, and a wide circle of relatives and friends who remember his joyful spirit.
The night of Saturday, October 10, 2026, ended in tragedy for the 44-year-old. At 11:41 p.m., the Little Rock Police Department received a ShotSpotter alert indicating gunfire near West 24th and 25th Streets. Officers from the 12th Street Division were dispatched to the area of 4216 West 25th Street. When they arrived, witnesses directed them to the back porch of a home at 4205 West 24th Street.
There, officers found Derek Johnson suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. They attempted life-saving measures, but his injuries were too severe, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Pulaski County Coroner's Office later transported his body to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy. The investigation revealed the extent of the violence that night, as gunfire had also struck an adjacent home and a nearby vehicle.
Homicide detectives and the Crime Scene Search Unit were called to the location to begin their investigation. They secured the residence and obtained a search warrant to process the scene for evidence. During the initial response, police also made contact with three other individuals who were victims in the same shooting incident, though it was not specified if they sustained injuries.
The Little Rock Police Department is actively investigating the homicide, but no suspect information has been released to the public. The circumstances that led to the shooting remain unclear, and authorities have not commented on a potential motive. The case remains open and ongoing as detectives continue to follow leads and gather information.
Family and friends gathered to mourn Derek’s passing and celebrate his life. A visitation was held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Gaines Street Baptist Church in Little Rock, followed by a funeral service at the same location. The outpouring of support reflected the deep impact Derek had on those who knew him.
As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made in connection with Derek Lamont Johnson's death. The investigation continues, leaving his loved ones and community waiting for answers and justice.
