James Johnson was a 15-year-old boy from Buna, Texas, who died on December 25, 2019, after an accidental shooting at a home in a trailer park on Buna’s north side. He was visiting family for Christmas when a firearm discharged as a 10-year-old cousin handled it; the gun had been brought to the home by a 19-year-old who believed it was unloaded. James was struck in the abdomen and chest and was taken to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators determined the firearm had been stolen. The 19-year-old who brought the gun was taken into custody for questioning and later released. Authorities ruled the incident an accident and no charges were filed. The community, including Buna First Assembly of God, organized fundraising to help with medical and funeral costs. James was remembered as respectful, fun-loving, and faithful by peers and teachers.