Patrolman Mickey Gene Johnson was 20 when he was killed while on duty in Belmont, Mississippi. On December 1, 1977, Johnson — a two-year member of the Belmont Police Department described as dedicated and compassionate — was responding to a report of a car theft. During an attempt to apprehend the suspect, a struggle occurred and the assailant gained control of Johnson’s service weapon; Johnson was fatally shot and the suspect fled.

The assailant was identified as Marion Stanley Osborne. An investigation led to Osborne’s arrest, and on April 14, 1978, he was convicted of capital murder in Tishomingo County and sentenced to life in prison for the death of Patrolman Johnson. A section of Mississippi Highway 25 in Belmont was later named the Mickey Gene Johnson Memorial Highway in his honor.

If anyone knew Patrolman Johnson, saw him on duty that day, or has information about the incident, please share what is known.