On September 17, 2024, Johnny Lewis Stevenson Jr., a 47-year-old resident of the Florida City area, was fatally shot while attempting to intervene in a fight involving his daughter and other girls. The incident began on a school bus where two girls were fighting, and the altercation continued onto the street in the 1400 block of Northwest 1st Court.
Stevenson arrived at the scene to help his daughter, who was involved in the fight.
However, the situation escalated when 22-year-old Kentarian Cross pulled out a gun and shot Stevenson in the stomach. Following the shooting, Stevenson was driven to the hospital in a private vehicle and then airlifted to Jackson South Medical Center, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Kentarian Cross, identified as the suspect by witnesses, was seen in possession of a firearm before the fight. Cross turned himself in to the authorities on the day after the shooting. He is currently facing charges of second-degree murder with a weapon.
Stevenson is remembered as a loving father to 14 children. His family has expressed their grief and frustration, with his sister stating that the shooter's surrender does not bring back her brother. Stevenson's cousin described him as a role model and an amazing dad to the children he left behind.
The incident was captured on cellphone video, which shows the fight and the large crowd involved. The video evidence helped police in identifying Cross as the perpetrator. The community is mourning the loss of Stevenson, who was known for his efforts to protect his family.
