Authorities in Rowan County have identified the man found shot to death along a roadway early Wednesday morning as 32-year-old Willie Johnson Jr. The discovery has sparked a homicide investigation as police work to uncover the circumstances leading to his death.
The incident unfolded on July 30, when police received a call around 7:25 a.m. reporting an unresponsive person lying in the street. Officers responded to the intersection of Long and Liberty Street in Salisbury, where they found Johnson already deceased from an apparent gunshot wound.
As the investigation progressed, detectives determined that Johnson may not have been shot at the location where his body was found. Evidence suggests the shooting likely occurred at a residence on Park Avenue, approximately one mile away. How Johnson ended up at the intersection remains unclear, and investigators have not yet confirmed whether he was transported there by someone else or moved under different circumstances.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and the Salisbury Police Department has not released any information about possible suspects or a motive. Officials stated that there is currently no evidence of an ongoing threat to the public, but emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Authorities are continuing to gather evidence, speak with potential witnesses, and trace Johnson’s final movements. The Salisbury Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring clarity to the case and justice for Johnson and his loved ones.
As the community mourns the loss of Willie Johnson Jr., investigators are committed to uncovering the truth behind his tragic death. Further updates will be shared as new developments arise.
