Daniel R. Johnson, 29, of Rockford, Illinois, was shot and killed on April 7, 2022, in the parking lot of Anderson Toyota in Loves Park. Employees said the shooting followed a drug-related confrontation: another dealership employee was selling marijuana to Roman Richmond of Freeport, and Richmond allegedly pointed a gun at that employee and demanded the drugs. Daniel intervened by pointing his own gun at Richmond and ordering him to leave; Richmond then shot Daniel. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures but Daniel succumbed to his injuries.

Daniel, born August 3, 1992, in Machesney Park, had worked at Anderson Toyota for ten years and enjoyed motorcycles, shooting sports, survivalist hiking and camping, concerts, and video games. His family describes him as protective and selfless; his brother Caleb said they did everything together. Roman Richmond was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Daniel’s funeral was held April 15, 2022; a GoFundMe was created to assist the family.

If anyone has information about the incident or knew Daniel, please share what you can.