Tragic Death of Siarra Barrow Leads to SWAT Standoff and Suicide of Suspect Little Johnny Dennis
JONESBORO, Ga. — Authorities have identified 25-year-old Siarra Barrow as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred Saturday inside her smoke-filled apartment in Jonesboro. The suspected shooter, 45-year-old Little Johnny Dennis, Barrow’s former boyfriend and the father of her child, later died by suicide following a tense SWAT standoff in Griffin.
Responding to reports of smoke and a triggered fire alarm around noon, Jonesboro police arrived at Siarra Barrow’s apartment to find her shot multiple times in a bedroom. A pot left burning on the stove had filled the unit with smoke, prompting the emergency call. Tragically, officers found Barrow deceased inside.
According to police, Little Johnny Dennis had been seen leaving the apartment complex shortly before officers arrived. Witnesses and Barrow’s family described a troubled and often volatile relationship between the two. Investigators believe Dennis forced entry into Barrow’s apartment, shot her multiple times, and then barricaded the front door before fleeing the scene.
Manhunt Ends in Griffin
Law enforcement tracked Dennis to a location on Ashley Drive in Griffin, where officers from the Griffin Police Department and Spalding County Sheriff’s Office attempted to make contact. Dennis responded by retreating into the woods armed with multiple firearms, making suicidal threats, and prompting a SWAT response and a shelter-in-place order for the area.
Despite negotiations and repeated attempts to get Dennis to surrender peacefully, he ultimately took his own life as SWAT officers moved in.
Community Mourns Siarra Barrow
The death of Siarra Barrow has left her family and community in mourning. Loved ones remember her as a devoted mother and a kind-hearted young woman with dreams she was determined to pursue.
“She didn’t deserve this,” a family member said. “Siarra was trying to build a better life for herself and her child. This should never have happened.”
Barrow’s tragic death has reignited calls for more effective support systems and early intervention for those experiencing domestic violence.
Remembering the Victim and Seeking Justice
While the suspect, Little Johnny Dennis, will never face trial, authorities are continuing their investigation to ensure every detail is documented. Police say the case serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers victims of domestic abuse face and the urgent need for community awareness and resources.
A memorial vigil for Siarra Barrow is being planned, and her family has asked for privacy as they grieve and make arrangements for her burial.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or abusive relationship, help is available 24/7. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).