Councilwoman Pittman Demands More Safety at Clanzel T. Brown Park After Deadly Shooting and Arrest

Jacksonville City Councilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman is advocating for increased public safety measures at Clanzel T. Brown Park following a fatal shooting that occurred there on Wednesday. The incident led to the arrest of a suspect charged with second-degree murder.

This call for action comes after the community witnessed another act of violence in a public space. Residents in the Moncrief area, particularly those who frequent Clanzel T. Brown Park, will see city officials and community leaders focusing on how to make their neighborhoods safer.

Charles Johnson Jr., 33, was shot multiple times shortly before 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the park, located on Moncrief Road. He was transported to a hospital where he later died. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office reported that Johnson was playing basketball when an argument escalated. Jayden King, 22, allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Johnson before fleeing the scene. Witnesses identified King, and officers located him less than four miles from the park. King was arrested before midnight on Wednesday and charged with second-degree murder.

Councilwoman Pittman, who represents District 10, expressed deep concern over the ongoing gun violence. She stated, “I’m deeply concerned and frustrated by the continued gun violence, particularly when we are seeing repeated incidents in and around the same areas. One life lost is one too many, and our residents deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, parks and public spaces.” AJ Jordan, president of MAD DADS of Northeast Florida, praised the community's quick response, which aided in King's swift apprehension. Jordan noted the potential for a worse outcome, given that children and grandparents were present in the park.

This shooting marks the second such incident at Clanzel T. Brown Park in less than two months. Previously, a 12-year-old boy was shot in the leg at the same park during an argument between two groups.

City officials will now consider additional safety measures for Clanzel T. Brown Park and other public spaces in response to these recurring incidents.