Stevon Hammond, 25, was shot to death late Tuesday inside a home at 620 NW 114. Police have arrested Braylon Timmons, 21, on a murder complaint and have issued a warrant for his brother, Brandon Timmons, 25, in connection with the shooting.

District 1 Commissioner Willa Johnson

Police said there was an altercation at the home before the shooting. Several other people were reportedly at the home when the shooting happened but left before officers arrived.

Johnson issued a statement Wednesday about the incident expressing shock and sorrow at the news.

“I urge anyone who may have information regarding Stevon’s death to contact Oklahoma City Police Crime Stoppers at 235-7300,” Johnson said in the statement. ” Please continue to pray for Stevon, our family and friends, during this very difficult time.” 

Police said anyone with information about Brandon Timmons’ wereabouts is asked to call 911. Callers with other information can call the homicide tip line at 297-1200.

This is not the first time Johnson has experienced personal tragedy. Her son died several years ago, and Johnson made no secrets about the effect his death had on her life. She has also been fighting breast cancer.

I’ve covered Johnson since I began working the city government beat in 2003. She was a longtime Ward 7 city councilwoman before she won the District 1 county commissioner’s seat. She’s always treated me with warmth and respect.

When Johnson became a county commissioner in 2007, I spent an afternoon touring the district with her. It seemed that no matter where we went, everyone knew her. Whether it was a local golf course or her favorite barbecue restaurant, people came up to Johnson, got a big hug and chatted with her about their families. No doubt, Johnson will need some of that affection returned at this difficult time.

My deepest sympathies go out to Willa Johnson and her family.

- Staff Writer Bryan Dean