In a tragic incident over the weekend, a former college football player mistakenly shot his mother, believing her to be an intruder in their Missouri home. The 25-year-old man, Jaylen Johnson, has been inconsolable since the incident, according to his attorney, William Goldstein.
The unfortunate event unfolded early Thursday morning when Johnson’s mother, Monica McNichols-Johnson, 56, attempted to enter their Olivette home through the back door. Mistaking her for a trespasser, Johnson fired his gun, resulting in her death. The suburban St. Louis home was the scene of a heartbreaking misunderstanding that has left a family in mourning.
Johnson had kept a firearm in the house for personal safety following a previous incident where he was robbed at gunpoint, as per his lawyer. Despite the immediate life-saving efforts of Johnson’s girlfriend, McNichols-Johnson succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Johnson promptly dialed 911. His attorney stated that he has been in a state of deep distress since the incident. Johnson, who once played college football, is currently employed and has no prior criminal record, according to his lawyer and official reports.
The local authorities have charged Johnson with manslaughter and armed criminal action in connection with the incident. A bail amount of $100,000 has been set for him.
This tragic incident underscores the potential dangers of firearm ownership and the importance of proper safety measures. It also raises questions about the psychological impact of previous traumatic experiences, such as Johnson’s robbery, and how they can influence decision-making in high-stress situations.