Pierce Johnson

Pierce Johnson, a 22-year-old Black man from Berlin, New Jersey, was described by his family as a wonderful and loving young man who had his whole life ahead of him. He was known for being outgoing and goofy, with many friends and a family that adored him. A devoted son, brother, and uncle, he was also the father of a young daughter who would never get to meet him or feel his warm hugs.

In the early morning hours of Sunday, February 2, 2014, Pierce was in Philadelphia’s Kingsessing neighborhood. Around 3:20 a.m., he and another man were walking on the 1200 block of South 57th Street when a gunman opened fire on them. Pierce was struck multiple times, suffering two gunshot wounds to the head and three to his back. Philadelphia Police officers responded to the scene and transported him to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was pronounced dead at 3:25 a.m.

A second victim, a 23-year-old man, was found nearby on the 5700 block of Hoffman Street with gunshot wounds to his face and chest. He was also taken to the hospital and was listed in critical condition.

Investigators sought information on at least one suspect, with police describing two men seen at the time of the shooting. One was reportedly wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, and the other was wearing a tan hooded sweatshirt. No arrests have ever been made in connection with the murder, and more than a decade later, Pierce’s family is still heartbroken and without answers. His case remains unsolved.

The City of Philadelphia offers a reward of $20,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS (8477), text a tip to PPD TIP (773847), or submit it through PhillyPolice.com.