Miramar, Florida – Friends, family, and teachers gathered to honor the life of 17-year-old Johnnie Henderson, who was tragically shot and killed in a drive-by shooting. The incident, which occurred on the evening of January 28, also left his girlfriend critically injured. According to witnesses, a white sedan pulled up next to their car on University Drive and fired multiple rounds before fleeing the scene.
A memorial service was held at JAM Preparatory Academy, the school where Henderson was a junior student. He had been preparing to graduate early and had aspirations of playing college football for either the University of Miami or Florida State University. Henderson, while attending the academy in El Portal, played football at American High School in Miami-Dade, showcasing his dedication to his sport and education.
Pastor Lorenzo Johnson, the academy’s owner, spoke of Henderson’s determination to pursue his dreams, which included not only college football but also starting his own business and making a positive impact on others. Henderson’s friends and teachers also reflected on his life at the emotional service, where many attendees were visibly moved by the tragic loss.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Henderson’s aunt, Leketrisse Barnes, expressed their shock and pain while calling for justice to be served. She shared a heartfelt message for the shooter, urging them to come forward and make things right. Meanwhile, detectives investigating the case have few leads and are seeking the public’s assistance in gathering information about the shooting.
The family’s grief and plea for the shooter to take responsibility were palpable at the memorial service, with Barnes emphasizing the profound impact of their loss. She implored the individual(s) responsible for the shooting to consider the devastating consequences of their actions and to turn themselves in. In the meantime, anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to leave an anonymous tip with Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS (8477).