Jalen Johnson, 24, of Port Arthur, Texas, was killed on December 23, 2017, in Longview during an attempted robbery at a residence. Known to friends and family as JDUBB of 4/5, he was an upcoming artist and a 2011 graduate of Memorial High School. A resident of the home shot him during the incident and the death was investigated as a homicide.

Investigators identified 26-year-old Cody Fortman of Desoto, Texas, as a suspect; a witness’ cooperation was credited with helping to identify him. Legal proceedings were underway in the 124th District Court, with Fortman having entered a guilty plea for murder and awaiting sentencing. Johnson’s death was one of ten homicides recorded by the city of Longview in 2017, a year that prompted marches and vigils for peace.

If anyone knew Jalen, his work as an artist, or has information about the shooting, please come forward.