Demetrice Johnson dies in fatal Memphis vehicle crash
Fatal Memphis vehicle crash death of Demetrice Johnson – Obituary
Authorities in Memphis have identified the officer who tragically lost his life in a vehicle accident linked to a late-night shooting.
The officer, 34-year-old Demetrice Johnson, was involved in a collision between a gray Nissan and a police vehicle at the intersection of Mississippi Boulevard and Danny Thomas Boulevard.
The crash resulted in the deaths of Johnson and a civilian, while another officer remains in critical condition.
Memphis Police Department’s interim Chief CJ Davis expressed the department’s grief, stating, “The men and women of the Memphis Police Department are deeply saddened by the loss of Officer Demetrice Johnson.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the daily dangers faced by our officers as they serve our community. We request continued prayers for all those affected and for the swift recovery of our injured officer.”
Officer Johnson, who joined the MPD in May 2023, had recently completed his training at the Academy and was assigned to the North Main Station.
The department praised his bravery and dedication, noting, “Officer Johnson embodied the highest standards of courage and commitment. He leaves behind a devoted family and an MPD team committed to honoring his legacy through their service.”
Early reports indicate that police responded to the crash scene at 3:00 a.m., where they found three injured individuals. Two were MPD officers, and the third was the Nissan driver, who appeared to have sustained a gunshot wound.
Investigators traced the origin of the shooting to S. Parkway E and Mississippi Boulevard, where a dispute had occurred between the Nissan driver and another individual.
All three men were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Officer Johnson and the Nissan driver, identified as 22-year-old Rantavious Johnson, were pronounced dead upon arrival.
Local residents Nathan and Johnny shared their reactions, expressing their sorrow and support for the officer’s family. Nathan described the scene, saying, “I saw efforts to revive someone on the ground.
It’s heartbreaking.” Johnny added, “It’s devastating to hear. I’ll keep his family in my prayers.”
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, while MPD’s Homicide Bureau is handling the shooting inquiry. Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr. extended condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a Memphis Police Officer.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the Memphis Police Department. We also hope for a quick recovery for the injured officer.”
Memphis Mayor Paul Young also expressed condolences, emphasizing, “We mourn with the Memphis Police Department and the community today.
Our thoughts are with the families as we work towards a safer community for all.”
Officer Johnson’s sister shared that her brother had always dreamed of becoming a police officer, and she hopes he will be remembered for his selfless service and loving nature. “He was a humble servant with a good heart and a deep love for people,” she said.
Fatal Memphis vehicle crash death of Demetrice Johnson – Obituary Authorities in Memphis have identified the officer who tragically lost his life in a vehicle accident linked to a late-night shooting. The officer, 34-year-old Demetrice Johnson, was involved in a collision between a gray Nissan and a police vehicle at the intersection of Mississippi Boulevard…
Fatal Memphis vehicle crash death of Demetrice Johnson – Obituary Authorities in Memphis have identified the officer who tragically lost his life in a vehicle accident linked to a late-night shooting. The officer, 34-year-old Demetrice Johnson, was involved in a collision between a gray Nissan and a police vehicle at the intersection of Mississippi Boulevard…