Arrest made in deadly Stone Mountain tavern shooting, police say
Crime scene at Will Henry's Tavern in Stone Mountain, Ga.
STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. - Police say they have made an arrest in the shooting death of a man in parking lot of a popular Stone Mountain-area tavern on Monday.
Officers were called out around 7 p.m. to Will Henry's Tavern located at 1228 Rockbridge Road after a report of a shooting. Police say officers found 39-year-old Jerome Johnson suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Johnson was rushed to an area hospital, but did not survive his injuries.
Homicide detectives say they determined the shooting happened during a road rage incident nearby.
Shortly after the deadly shooting, responders got a call about a suspicious person matching descriptions of the suspect given by witnesses.
Jonnathan Bladimir Hernandez (Gwinnett County Police Department)
Officers searched the area and found and arrested 27-year-old Lilburn resident Jonnathan Bladimir Hernandez.
Hernandez is charged with felony murder and aggravated assault in connection with the shooting.
Will Henry's Tavern released a statement on Tuesday evening that reads:
"We at Will Henry's are deeply saddened by the passing of Jerome. He was part of our family. A person that meant a great deal to a lot of people. He was kind and always looked out for everyone. He will be missed more than words can say. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his parent's and family.
"We will be holding a candlelight vigil and balloon release tomorrow, December 21 at 8pm. All are welcomed to attend in honor of Jerome."
The Gwinnett County Police Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Unit continues to investigate.