TUSKEGEE, AL. (THECOUNT) — Tragedy struck the Tuskegee University Homecoming weekend when 18-year-old La’Tavion Johnson was killed in a mass shooting early Sunday morning in Tuskegee, Alabama. The shooting, which occurred around 1:40 a.m., also left 12 others injured, while an additional four people sustained non-gun-related injuries, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Johnson, was pronounced dead on the scene. Jaquez Myrick was caught as he was attempting to flee the scene.
Tuskegee University, a historic and esteemed institution in the African-American community, expressed deep condolences following the incident. In a public statement, the university confirmed, “The parents of [the deceased] individual have been notified. Several others including Tuskegee University students were injured and are receiving treatment at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika and Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery.” The university further clarified that Johnson was not enrolled as a student there.
|
Advertisement |
Police arrived to find Johnson lying unresponsive at the scene, and though emergency responders acted quickly, he could not be revived. The incident, a shocking end to a weekend of festivities, has cast a somber mood over the community. Tuskegee University canceled classes on Monday and opened its chapel to students, with grief counselors available to help process the trauma. The university also stated it was working on “completing student accountability and notifying parents” as it continued to provide support to affected students.
Shortly after the shooting, ALEA reported the arrest of 25-year-old Myrick of Montgomery, Alabama. Myrick was apprehended while attempting to leave the scene and has since been charged with possession of a machine gun. ALEA explained that he was in possession of a handgun with a machine gun conversion device, though it did not specify if Myrick had used the weapon in the shooting or clarify his connection to the university. Authorities are continuing to investigate Myrick’s role, if any, in the actual shooting.
The FBI has joined forces with local law enforcement and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to investigate this tragic event. The FBI is urging the public to assist by submitting any relevant video footage or tips that may shed light on the incident’s details. An online portal has been set up to facilitate these submissions, allowing witnesses and community members to share any material that could aid in the investigation.
As the Tuskegee community rallies together, the shooting has also highlighted the university’s historic importance. Established as the first historically Black college to receive the designation of a Registered National Landmark in 1966 and a National Historic Site in 1974, Tuskegee University has long held a place of pride and tradition. This tragic event marks an unfortunate moment in its legacy, as community members and university officials seek justice and answers.
The incident has prompted local and national discussions on gun violence, particularly concerning safety at large gatherings and college events. Community leaders are emphasizing the need for accountability and preventive measures to ensure that such violence does not occur again.
For Tuskegee students, alumni, and the greater community, Johnson’s untimely death and the injuries to others are painful reminders of the vulnerability faced in public spaces. Officials have assured the public that they are dedicated to resolving this case with full transparency and urging cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation unfolds.
DEVELOPING::