In the warm evening air of May 31, 2022, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, 19-year-old Jawan Taki Johnson was at a Sunoco gas station on Lynnhaven Parkway. The male teenager, a promising high school athlete just weeks from graduation, was tragically shot in the chest and pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 9 p.m.
Jawan, known affectionately as 'Fazzo' to his friends and family, was a beloved figure in his community.
He was a student at Salem High School where he was a standout football player. His family described him as having a big heart and even bigger dreams, with aspirations of playing in the NFL. He was one of seven siblings and was remembered by his aunt as a loving nephew who was like a son to her. The night he was killed, he had been preparing to cook dinner with his aunt before heading to the gas station.
In the days following the shooting, the Virginia Beach Police Department announced that they had identified the shooter and were actively investigating the homicide. They assured the public that there was no ongoing threat to the community. One report indicated that the identified suspect was cooperating with the investigation. However, the name of the suspect was never publicly released, and there have been no subsequent public announcements regarding any arrests made or charges filed in connection with Jawan Johnson's death.
The lack of resolution has left his family and community seeking answers and justice. Vigils and memorials were held to honor Jawan's memory, celebrating the life of a young man who was cherished as a protector and a positive influence on those around him. His family was presented with his high school diploma in his honor at what would have been his graduation ceremony. The investigation into his death is reportedly ongoing.
