Crime
24-Year-Old Jahkeem Douglas Killed in Shooting During Music Video Filming on Illinois Street in Rochester
The four surviving victims, aged 19, 20, 22, and 30, sustained varying injuries. One remains in critical condition, while the others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
A music video shoot meant to honor a slain individual turned tragic late Tuesday night, as gunfire erupted, leaving one person dead and four others injured.
The Rochester Police Department (RPD) detailed the incident during a press conference on Wednesday.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 p.m. at a rented residence on Illinois Street, where a group had gathered to film a music video in remembrance of DeAndre Jenkins, who was killed on June 11, 2019.
Approximately 20 to 30 people were present when gunfire broke out, with an estimated 20 rounds fired by multiple weapons.
RPD Captain Ryan Tauriello stated that officers initially responded to reports of gunfire at the residence.
Shortly after, four shooting victims arrived at Rochester General Hospital via private transportation. Officers on-site then discovered a fifth victim, who was transported to the University of Rochester Medical Center by ambulance.
The deceased victim was identified as 24-year-old Jahkeem Douglas, who succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The four surviving victims, aged 19, 20, 22, and 30, sustained varying injuries. One remains in critical condition, while the others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to officials.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans addressed the shooting during the press conference, emphasizing the senselessness of the violence.
“This is why we’re standing here today, and we shouldn’t be. Totally preventable, totally unnecessary, totally senseless, and total nonsense,” Evans said. He called for collective community efforts to disrupt violence before it occurs, highlighting the need for collaboration rather than reliance on government programs or quick fixes.
The Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation, which remains active. Authorities have not yet disclosed information regarding potential suspects or motives.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted by contacting 911, emailing majorcrimes@cityofrochester.gov, or calling Crime Stoppers at 585-423-9300.
The tragic incident underscores the continued struggle against gun violence in Rochester and the broader community’s efforts to prevent future tragedies.
Crime
34-year-old Augusta Fireman Spencer Johnson charged in accidental shooting of his 3-year-old son in Harlem
Johnson, a decorated firefighter from Augusta, was arrested on Friday.
A Columbia County father, Spencer Allen Johnson, 34, of Harlem, Georgia, has been charged with child cruelty after his 3-year-old son, Evan Johnson, accidentally shot himself in the shoulder with an unsecured firearm.
According to authorities, the incident occurred Thursday night when the child accessed an unsecured firearm in his father’s bedroom.
The young boy, left unsupervised, discharged the weapon, resulting in a gunshot wound to his shoulder. Fortunately, the child is expected to make a full recovery.
Johnson, a decorated firefighter from Augusta, was arrested on Friday.
He faces charges of child cruelty stemming from criminal negligence, which authorities allege caused “excessive physical pain” to his son through neglectful supervision. He is currently being held at the Columbia County Detention Center with bond set at $10,100.
The Harlem Police Department did not initially release information about the shooting. However, as rumors of the incident spread on social media, the situation was later confirmed by both WGAC’s Austin Rhodes and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office late Friday evening.
Early Saturday morning, Harlem Police Chief issued a statement on the department’s Facebook page, stating that the case remains under investigation as new details emerge.
The Chief’s statement suggests that the full circumstances surrounding the shooting are still being determined.
In his booking photo, Johnson is seen wearing an anti-suicide smock, a standard precautionary measure taken in some detention facilities.
The incident has sparked discussions about gun safety and parental responsibility. Authorities are expected to release further information as the investigation unfolds.
Meanwhile, the Columbia County community remains concerned about ensuring proper firearm storage to prevent similar tragedies.