Vernon Paul Tinky Johnson, 54, was shot and killed in Temple, Texas, on October 9, 2024. The shooting happened about 7:20 p.m. in the 700 block of Luna Lane after Johnson entered the backyard of his neighbor, 52-year-old David Tate. An argument between the two men ended when Tate shot Johnson multiple times. Johnson was taken to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

David Tate was arrested by the Temple Police Department on murder charges but was released after the Bell County District Attorney’s Office deferred the case and requested additional information. Authorities continue to review the incident and gather evidence.