Local authorities apprehended a wanted suspect for attempted murder in Licking County on Friday, bringing closure to a weeklong investigation that began with a shooting in rural Licking County.
On the morning of April 25, 2026, deputies were dispatched at 8:18 a.m. to the 10000 block of Purity Road after reports of gunfire. Responding units from the sheriff’s office, Mary Ann Township Fire Department, and Newton Township Fire Department arrived minutes later and found two victims, one suffering from a gunshot wound. Investigators determined that a woman had fled a nearby residence during a domestic violence dispute and sought help, which led to the shooting of an uninvolved bystander. Both victims were transported to a hospital with non‑life‑threatening injuries.
Initial reports suggested the suspect had returned to a residence on Harmon Road, prompting activation of the Licking County Sheriff’s SWAT team, though he was not located there. Detectives later identified the suspect as 36‑year‑old James Walter Johnson, who fled the scene in a white 2012 GMC Terrain. With assistance from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Mount Vernon Police Department, investigators located the vehicle in Mount Vernon, setting the stage for Friday’s arrest.
On May 1, detectives traced Johnson to a home in the 300 block of West Pleasant Street in Mount Vernon.
Officers from the Mount Vernon Police Department, Knox County Sheriff’s Office, and Licking County Sheriff’s Office secured the area and spoke with a resident, who confirmed Johnson was inside. The suspect surrendered without incident shortly afterward, according to a press release from the Mount Vernon Police Department.
Johnson was taken into custody and will be transported to the Licking County Jail on an attempted murder charge. Authorities noted that additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
"James Walter Johnson, wanted for Domestic Violence and a shooting on Purity Rd in Licking County on April 25 has been arrested without incident in Mt Vernon Ohio," Licking County Sheriff Randy Thorp stated in a press release. "Licking County Sheriff’s Detectives, Mt. Vernon P.D. and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the arrest in the 300 block of W Pleasant St in Mt Vernon."
Thorp added that "the investigation is active more information will be released when available."
The Licking County Sheriff’s Office is handling inquiries and updates on the case.
