In the autumn of 2017, the life of Lionel "Lonnie" Johnson, a 56-year-old Black / African American man, was tragically cut short in Omaha, Nebraska. On the evening of November 5th, Johnson was discovered with a gunshot wound and was rushed to an area hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
Remembered as a comical, humble, and helpful individual who had attended Benson High School, Johnson was working in traveling sales at the time of his death.
His brother recalled that he was in the midst of performing a good deed in what was described as a dangerous area when he was fatally shot. Those who knew him said he never parted ways without expressing his love.
The investigation into Lionel Johnson's death was upgraded to a homicide, but the case has since grown cold. To date, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and no suspects have been publicly identified. His murder remains one of Omaha's unsolved homicides, leaving his family and community without answers or justice for his untimely death. The Omaha Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information regarding the case to come forward.
