On May 18, 2023, 17-year-old Dakota Lee Johnson of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was fatally shot following a car crash. The incident occurred around midnight in the 2300 block of Indian Creek Drive. After being shot, Johnson managed to drive approximately a mile before colliding with a parked car near the EZ Pass convenience store on Sapona Road. He was transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
In the ensuing investigation, the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office identified multiple suspects connected to Johnson's death. In July 2024, authorities issued an arrest warrant for 20-year-old Emone Anthony Tyrone McGougan of Fayetteville, charging him with first-degree murder in connection with the case.
Subsequently, on February 8, 2024, 23-year-old Christian Jared Ashworth was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy in Johnson's death. Court records indicate that Ashworth conspired with others to commit the crime, during which a handgun and cell phone were stolen from Johnson. Notably, at the time of his arrest, Ashworth was out on bail for multiple robberies committed in June 2023.
The investigation into Johnson's death remains active, with authorities continuing to seek information regarding additional suspects and the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid in bringing those responsible to justice.
