A Deadly Night in Davenport
A tragic shooting unfolded Tuesday night in Davenport, Florida, leaving 32-year-old Elijah Johnson dead and the community in shock. At approximately 9:40 p.m., Polk County deputies responded to a distress call at the Home Suites hotel, located near the busy I-4 and U.S. 27 interchange. When officers arrived, they found Elijah lying unresponsive on the ground. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses told investigators they saw the suspected shooter, 29-year-old Angel Gonzalez-Morales, step out of a red sedan, engage briefly, and then flee into the woods. The chilling scene unfolded in minutes, but its impact will be felt for years by those who loved Elijah.
The Search for a Dangerous Fugitive
Authorities quickly tracked the red sedan to a nearby McDonald’s on U.S. 27 and Sand Mine Rd., where they apprehended the driver, 39-year-old Angel Efrain-Reillo. But Gonzalez-Morales, believed to be armed and dangerous, remains on the run.
Sheriff Grady Judd has urged the public to remain vigilant, stating:
“If anyone has information regarding his location or sees him, they are urged to call 9-1-1 immediately.”
The suspect was last seen heading toward the wooded areas behind hotels just east of U.S. 27 and north of I-4. Law enforcement officers have launched a full-scale search, using every available resource to locate him before more harm is done.
Remembering Elijah Johnson
While investigators work tirelessly to track down the suspect, Elijah’s family and friends are left to face the heartbreaking reality of his loss. Known for his kind nature, warm heart, and dedication to those around him, Elijah was someone who lit up every room he walked into. His sudden, violent death has left an irreplaceable void.
In the days ahead, candlelight vigils and memorials will be organized in Davenport to honor his life and provide support to his grieving loved ones. Community members are not only demanding justice but also calling for unity in the face of this tragedy.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to call 911 or contact Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS. As the manhunt continues, the hope is that swift justice will bring some measure of peace to those mourning Elijah Johnson—a man whose life was stolen far too soon, but whose memory will endure in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
