Updated to reflect arrest of Jaylin Johnson.
OCALA, FL (352today.com) – UPDATE Jan. 5: The Ocala Police Department (OPD) says an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers has led to the arrest of the second person wanted in connection with a shooting outside a Burger King in Ocala.
OPD says Marion County Sheriff’s deputies located 21-year-old Jaylin Johnson at a home 3721 NE 40th Place.
Johnson was wanted on charges of third-degree murder in the death of 28-year-old Jose Valliant.
Deputies had already arrested 21-year-old David Smith III in connection with the November 3 shooting at the fast-food restaurant on East Silver Springs Boulevard. Smith was already in the county jail on unrelated charges when deputies tacked on the murder charge on December 22.
“Our investigation into this homicide has led us to the conclusion that Jaylin Johnson and David Smith were responsible for the murder of Jose Valliant,” said the sheriff’s office in a release. “The suspects were part of a prearranged drug deal that resulted in the killing of Mr. Vaillant.”
PREVIOUSLY, Jan 3: The Ocala Police Department (OPD) is looking for a second person in connection with a deadly shooting at the Burger King on East Silver Springs Boulevard.
OPD says they’ve issued an arrest warrant for 21-year-old Jaylin Robert Johnson for the murder of 28-year-old Jose Valliant.
Police say Valliant was killed in a shooting outside the fast-food restaurant on November 3, 2023, during a drug deal.
Last month, OPD arrested 21-year-old David Smith in connection with the deadly shooting.
“Our investigation into this homicide of Jose Valliant has led us to the conclusion that David Smith and Jaylin Johnson were responsible for the murder. The suspects were part of a prearranged drug deal that resulted in the killing of Mr. Vaillant,” said Jeff Walczak, public information officer for OPD. “During the drug deal, Jose Valliant was shot and killed and both Smith and Johnson are facing murder charges.”
Police also arrested two others and charged them with tampering with evidence.
“The Ocala Police Department is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served. Our hearts go out to the family of Jose Valliant during this difficult time,” added Walczak.
Police say if you know where Johnson is, please call the detective investigating the case at 352-369-7000 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Marion County by calling 352-368-STOP (7867) or dialing **TIPS on your cell. Tips can also be submitted online.
OPD says if you use Crime Stoppers and your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000.