On June 24, 2023, Orlando Police received a 911 call from Joan Foster-Taylor, 50, who reported that she had been shot. Despite her efforts to communicate, Foster-Taylor was unable to identify the shooter before succumbing to her injuries at Orlando Health. She had been shot as she was entering her apartment at Metro Place Apartments along S. Kirkman Road in Orlando, Florida.
The investigation revealed a history of conflict between Foster-Taylor and her ex-boyfriend, Tyrese Johnson, 33. After their breakup, Johnson's vehicle was frequently observed at Foster-Taylor's apartment complex by both the victim and her roommate. The victim had taken measures to secure her home, including adjusting the attic hatch and changing the door locks, due to Johnson's persistent presence.
Police obtained a search warrant for Johnson's phone, which placed him near the scene of the crime at the time of the shooting. The phone also showed multiple searches related to hospitals treating gunshot wounds and inquiries about his own legal situation, including searches like "Does Jesus want me to confess my sins to the police" and "Tyrese Johnson Orlando, Fl wanted for murder." Voice memos on Johnson's phone revealed obsessive behavior and jealousy toward Foster-Taylor and her relationships.
Surveillance footage from the apartment complex captured a vehicle resembling Johnson's leaving shortly after the shooting, corroborating witness statements. Tag readers also confirmed that Johnson's vehicle was in the area near the time of the incident.
Following a four-day trial, a jury found Tyrese Johnson guilty of first-degree murder with a firearm. The presiding judge sentenced him to life in prison for the fatal shooting of Joan Foster-Taylor.
Johnson was arrested and initially faced a charge of second-degree murder with a weapon. He was held without bond after his arrest. The trial and subsequent conviction highlighted the extensive evidence against Johnson, including his phone records, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies that linked him to the crime scene and demonstrated his motive and actions leading up to the murder.
