Robert Charles “Puda” Johnson, a beloved father, son, brother, and friend, was known for his kind heart, generous spirit, and a contagious smile that could light up any room. The 29-year-old Black man was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, where he attended Bozeman Elementary, Alderson Middle School, and graduated from Estacado High School. A fierce competitor in sports, Robert excelled in football, track, and baseball, setting and breaking numerous records during his high school career. Remembered as a gentle and humble young man, his greatest joy was being a devoted and loving father to his children, with whom he filled every moment with laughter and love. His family recalls that he never met a stranger and touched many lives with his humor, warmth, and unwavering loyalty.
The life of this cherished community member was cut short in the early hours of Sunday, February 2, 2025.
At approximately 1:02 a.m., officers with the Lubbock Police Department responded to a call reporting shots fired in the 1900 block of East Baylor Street in northeast Lubbock. Inside a residence, they found Robert Johnson suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the immediate response from law enforcement, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit secured the area and launched a homicide investigation into the tragic shooting.
In the weeks that followed, investigators worked to piece together the events that led to Johnson's death. On February 26, 2025, the Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit publicly identified a person of interest in the case: 41-year-old James “Duce Capone” Bishop. At the time, authorities announced that Bishop was already wanted on an unrelated warrant for a parole violation. Police noted that he had recently been in the Dallas, Houston, and Austin areas and could be in any of those cities. They appealed to the public for any information regarding his whereabouts.
The search for Bishop came to an end when he was located and captured by law enforcement in Abilene, Texas. Following his arrest, Bishop was charged in connection with the murder of Robert Johnson. The case has since moved into the judicial system, where it is currently in the litigation phase. Details regarding the specific evidence linking Bishop to the crime or the motive behind the shooting have not been publicly released by investigators as the court proceedings continue.
In the wake of his death, the Lubbock community mourned the loss of a man known for his devotion to his family and friends. A celebration of his life was held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the First Progressive Baptist Church, followed by his interment at the City of Lubbock Cemetery. His loved ones remember a legacy of love, strength, and devotion that will live on in their hearts forever.
As of the latest reports, the case against James Bishop is proceeding through the Texas court system. The Lubbock Police Department has previously encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Crime Line at 806-741-1000. A reward of up to $5,000 was offered for information leading to an arrest, and callers were assured they could remain anonymous.
