Xavier J. Johnson, 20, of Clarksville, was shot dead on August 19, 2024, behind a home on Maplecrest Drive in the Donelson area of Nashville. The house was being used in part as a short-term rental but was unoccupied at the time. Investigators say Johnson had been communicating with 20-year-old Markaisha Keal on Instagram and arranged to meet her at the property. Keal reportedly led him to the rear of the house, where 18-year-old Jeremiah Henderson allegedly lay in wait. Henderson is accused of running up to Johnson and shooting him multiple times; Keal and Henderson then allegedly searched his pockets and fled with his belongings.

The pair reportedly left the area the next day by Greyhound bus to Biloxi, Mississippi. A breakthrough came on November 11, 2024, when Clarksville officers, responding to a domestic violence call, encountered Keal and Henderson and learned both had outstanding homicide warrants issued October 31, 2024. Both were arrested in connection with Johnson’s murder; Keal was returned to Nashville and Henderson remained in custody in Montgomery County on unrelated matters before transfer. Johnson’s family described him as having a big heart and a memorable smile and said the arrests brought them relief.

Does anyone have information about Johnson’s movements that night or about the short-term rental on Maplecrest Drive?