In the early morning hours of May 18, 2017, the life of 20-year-old Tyler J. Johnson was tragically cut short in what authorities would describe as a targeted act of violence. Residing at a home on State Route 37 in the Town of Pamelia, New York, near Evans Mills, Johnson was discovered in a bedroom, suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite being airlifted to SUNY Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into the shooting quickly pointed to the likelihood that Johnson knew his assailant or assailants and was the intended victim. Over the next several months, a series of arrests were made in connection with the homicide. The first to be taken into custody, on July 6, 2017, was 26-year-old Jamaal K. Carr of Watertown, who was charged with Murder in the 2nd Degree.
The case continued to unfold with the arrests of 20-year-old Taylor I. Beckstead and 22-year-old Devin Hunter Davis on July 17, 2017.
Both were also charged with Murder in the 2nd Degree. The investigation extended beyond New York, leading to the apprehension of another suspect, Shawn O. Moore Jr., age 26, in Winter Garden, Florida, on July 24, 2017, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service. He too faced a charge of Murder in the 2nd Degree. A fifth individual, Sammy Brown, was also arrested and charged in connection with Johnson's death.
Tyler James Johnson, born on February 9, 1997, was remembered as a young man with a bright future who had attended Watertown High School. He was known for his love of outdoor activities like tubing, jet skiing, skateboarding, and snowboarding, as well as his enjoyment of music and video games. Described as having a big heart and a quick smile, he was deeply loved by his family and friends. His obituary noted how much he enjoyed spending time with his loved ones and the joy his presence brought to his siblings.
