Clint Allen Stephens, 48, of Jerusalem, Ohio, died on December 12, 2016, from a roadside shooting along Ohio 800 near the Belmont/Monroe county line. Stephens, born October 28, 1968, in Barnesville, Ohio, worked as a heavy equipment operator for Westmoreland Coal Company and belonged to American Legion Post 168. He is survived by his father, Delmas Stephens, and three children, Heather, Derek, and Trystan Stephens.

Authorities say Harold Wayne Johnson Jr., 46, of Lewisville, met Stephens at the side of the road, exited his vehicle, and shot Stephens while Stephens remained inside his car. Johnson was arrested shortly afterward by Monroe County sheriff’s deputies. In June 2017 Johnson pleaded guilty to aggravated murder with a firearm specification and was later sentenced to life with no parole eligibility for 20 years plus three years for the firearm specification, meaning parole cannot be sought for 23 years.

The judge at sentencing referenced Johnson’s prior violent misconduct and alcohol problems, and the hearing included statements about the lasting loss felt by Stephens’ family; the defense noted remorse and long-term mental illness. If anyone knew Clint or has information about the incident, please share what can help the record.