Joey F. Summerall was a 13-year-old special-education student at Tavares Middle School who was shot and killed on September 29, 1995, in Tavares, Florida. The shooting happened during a class change in a crowded breezeway; Joey was struck multiple times in the head and chest. The weapon was a 9mm handgun that a 14-year-old classmate, Keith Johnson, had brought to school after stealing it from a family friend.

Johnson confronted Joey, a brief argument followed, and then he opened fire. Numerous students witnessed the shooting, which caused immediate panic and prompted calls for increased school security. Johnson was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, tried as an adult, and sentenced to life in prison without parole. The case drew national attention and influenced debates about school safety and juvenile justice.

Joey’s death deeply affected the Tavares community and prompted lasting conversations about how to prevent similar tragedies. If anyone knew Joey or has information that could shed light on that day, please share what can help the record.