CITRUS COUNTY, FL – Earlier this morning, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a call for service regarding a shooting in the parking lot of Colonial Plaza in Inverness. Within minutes, deputies arrived on the scene and located the male victim, later identified as 33-year-old Traske C. Johnson, in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate lifesaving measures, Johnson succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
The suspect, 35-year-old Dwann D. Ross Jr., was also present at the scene and was quickly detained by deputies. Detectives from the CCSO Criminal Investigations Division immediately responded and began an investigation into the shooting. Based on evidence collected, it was determined that both men, who operated separate businesses within Colonial Plaza, were involved in a physical altercation. During the altercation, Ross retrieved a handgun and shot Johnson several times.
“Citrus County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Deputies reacted quickly to this shooting to ensure the safety of numerous citizens that were in Colonial Plaza this morning. They were able to assess the scene, detain the suspect, and arrange medical treatment for the victim, who unfortunately succumbed to his injuries,” said Sheriff Mike Prendergast. “The CCSO Criminal Investigation Division will closely partner with the Fifth Judicial Circuit to pursue justice for Johnson as this case progresses. My condolences go out to the family and community members affected by this senseless act of violence.”
Following an interview at the CCSO Emergency Operations Center, Ross was arrested for Second Degree Murder and transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility. He will be held without bond per the bond schedule.
The Incident in Detail
The tragic events of this morning began unfolding just before 9 a.m. when witnesses reported hearing a heated argument in the parking lot of Colonial Plaza, a bustling shopping center in Inverness, Florida. According to initial reports, the confrontation quickly escalated, culminating in the fatal shooting of Traske C. Johnson.
Johnson, a well-known figure in the community, owned a small retail business in the plaza. His life was cut short when a verbal dispute with Dwann D. Ross Jr., another business owner in the same plaza, turned deadly. Witnesses described the argument as intense, noting that both men seemed agitated.
Ross, who operated a separate business in the plaza, allegedly retrieved a handgun from his vehicle during the altercation and fired multiple shots at Johnson. The sound of gunfire prompted a flurry of 911 calls from nearby patrons and business owners.
Law Enforcement’s Response
Upon receiving the emergency call, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the scene. Their rapid response was crucial in ensuring the safety of bystanders and securing the area. Within minutes, deputies arrived at Colonial Plaza, where they found Johnson lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite immediate medical attention from both deputies and responding paramedics, Johnson was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital. The quick actions of law enforcement also led to the immediate detention of Ross, who remained at the scene.
The Investigation
Detectives from the CCSO Criminal Investigations Division quickly took over the investigation, working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the shooting. Based on evidence collected at the scene and witness testimonies, it became clear that the altercation had rapidly escalated from a verbal dispute to a deadly confrontation.
The investigation revealed that both Johnson and Ross had a history of disputes, though the exact nature of their disagreements remains unclear. As business owners in the same plaza, their interactions were frequent, but today’s confrontation was unlike any prior disagreements they might have had.
Detectives conducted thorough interviews with witnesses who were present at the scene. Many described hearing raised voices and seeing the two men arguing before shots were fired. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses provided additional insights, capturing the moments leading up to the shooting.
The Role of Mental Health and Conflict Resolution
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, questions have arisen about the role of mental health and conflict resolution. It is unclear if either party had any underlying mental health issues that may have contributed to the escalation. However, this incident underscores the importance of mental health resources and effective conflict resolution mechanisms in preventing such tragedies.
The CCSO has emphasized the need for enhanced training for law enforcement officers in de-escalation techniques and mental health crisis intervention. This training can equip officers with the tools needed to manage volatile situations more effectively, potentially preventing similar incidents in the future.
Community Reaction
The community of Inverness is in shock following the shooting. Colonial Plaza, typically a bustling hub of activity, was transformed into a crime scene, cordoned off by police tape as investigators worked diligently to gather evidence.
Local residents expressed their disbelief and sorrow over the incident. Many knew both Johnson and Ross personally, adding to the community’s sense of loss. A memorial with flowers and candles began to form at the site where Johnson was shot, as friends, family, and community members paid their respects.
Public Safety Concerns
Sheriff Mike Prendergast addressed the public’s concerns in a press conference, emphasizing the swift actions of the deputies in securing the scene and detaining the suspect. He reassured the community that the incident was isolated and that there was no ongoing threat to public safety.
However, the shooting has raised broader questions about safety in public spaces and the accessibility of firearms. Some community members have called for increased security measures at local shopping centers and better enforcement of gun control laws.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, Dwann D. Ross Jr. was charged with Second Degree Murder and transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility. He is being held without bond, reflecting the severity of the charges against him.
The legal process will now begin, with Ross facing a series of court appearances as the case moves through the judicial system. The Fifth Judicial Circuit will play a crucial role in prosecuting the case, working closely with the CCSO to ensure that justice is served.
Supporting the Victim’s Family
In the wake of Johnson’s tragic death, the community has rallied to support his family. A GoFundMe page was established to assist with funeral expenses and to provide financial support to Johnson’s loved ones during this difficult time. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with many donating and leaving heartfelt messages.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office has also offered support services to Johnson’s family, including counseling and assistance with navigating the legal process. The department’s Victim Advocate Program provides a range of services to victims and their families, helping them cope with the aftermath of violent crimes.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues and the community begins to heal, there is a collective call for measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. This includes advocating for mental health resources, conflict resolution training, and community engagement initiatives.
Local organizations have begun to hold forums and workshops aimed at fostering understanding and promoting non-violent conflict resolution. These efforts are aimed at building a safer, more resilient community where disputes can be resolved without resorting to violence.
Conclusion
The shooting at Colonial Plaza has left an indelible mark on the Inverness community. The tragic loss of Traske C. Johnson has sparked a broader conversation about public safety, mental health, and the need for effective conflict resolution strategies. As the legal process unfolds, the community remains united in its support for Johnson’s family and its commitment to preventing future acts of violence. The actions of the CCSO and the response from the community highlight the importance of swift, coordinated efforts in the face of tragedy. Together, they work towards a future where such senseless acts of violence are a thing of the past.
