Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A tragic incident unfolded in Tipton County on Monday night, resulting in the death of 44-year-old Kristen Johnson and the injury of her son. The suspect, Donald Ray Parker Jr., 52, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated stalking.
The incident took place around 11:15 p.m. on April 22 in the east Tipton County area on Billings Drive and McGowan Drive. Deputies responded to a report of a child who had been shot and was seeking help from neighbors. The child informed the deputies that the shooter was still inside the home with his mother, whose condition was unknown at the time.
Suspect Surrenders After Negotiation
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies surrounded the child’s home and observed the suspect moving inside. After attempting to communicate with the suspect through the front door, negotiations began over the phone. After 45 minutes of dialogue, the suspect, identified as Donald Parker, surrendered to authorities.
Tragically, Kristen Johnson was pronounced dead inside the home from a gunshot wound. The suspect admitted to his actions, and Sheriff Shannon Beasley expressed his condolences to the victim’s family.
Sheriff Beasley’s Statement
In a Facebook post, Sheriff Beasley stated, “This is a very sad and awful situation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ms. Johnson’s family and especially her son as he mourns the loss of his mother and recovers from his own wounds. Ray Parker will now answer for his actions, and I hope he has the rest of his life in prison to think about the decisions he has made that have forever changed this family.”
He commended the deputies for their response and handling of the situation, as well as the detectives for their diligent work in processing the scene.
The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served for Kristen Johnson and her family.
.