Although millions of us get behind the wheel daily, driving is dangerous. We must always remain attentive but not just to avoid an accident. We also have to pay attention to animals, cyclists, pedestrians, the weather, and every other distraction that might come our way. Even if we drive safely, just being on the road can pose hidden hazards. When Edward E. Johnson Jr. got into the car with his daughter on a typical Friday morning, he never expected that drive would be their last. A quick honk of the horn changed everything for Johnson and his family.
According to court documents, Johnson was driving near West Florissant and Canfield Drive in Ferguson, Missouri, outside St. Louis, on January 23, 2026, around 10 a.m. Johnson’s unnamed daughter told police that two pedestrians were in the road and her father honked at them. The men allegedly pulled out guns and shot at Johnson as he drove past. A bullet struck the driver in the back, which caused him to crash. Officers from the Ferguson Police Department arrived quickly, and crews took Johnson to an area hospital. Sadly, he died a short time later.
Police reported that Johnson’s daughter gave a description of the shooter, who wore a black hoodie and red pants.
“A canvass of the area revealed two people matching the description of the pedestrians entering into an apartment. A search warrant was obtained for the apartment and officers found a black hoodie and red pants at the bottom of a trash bag,” court documents state.
Police identified the suspect as Deandre Spruill Jr. The man allegedly admitted to shooting into Johnson’s vehicle and described the weapon he used. Police arrested Spruill, who faces second-degree murder and armed criminal action charges.
“I believe that the defendant poses a danger to the community or to any other person and will not appear on a summons because he shot the victim, left the scene, and attempted to hide evidence,” police noted in the report.
Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle shared his gratitude with his team for promptly arresting Spruill.
“The Ferguson Police Department showed excellent teamwork and investigative skills in bringing a quick resolution to this particular case. The death of Mr. Johnson is extremely tragic and totally unnecessary,” he shared in a release posted on social media. “Our team will continue working this case to ensure that all involved are identified and the appropriate charges are sought. It’s the least we can do to bring this family some sense of peace during their grief.”
A judge has set Spruill’s bond at $250,000 cash only.
We will never understand why someone’s reaction to anything is to point a gun at another person and shoot them. Not only did this end Johnson’s life, but if a court convicts Spruill, it could effectively end his, too. What a waste.
