DOTHAN, ALABAMA – A quiet Monday morning was shattered by violence in Dothan on June 30, 2025, as authorities responded to a deadly shooting that has left a community in mourning and a family devastated. The Houston County Coroner, Robert Byrd, has officially identified the victim as 27-year-old Johnny Oliver, a young man whose life was taken in a senseless act that is now at the center of an active homicide investigation.
According to the Dothan Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene of the shooting early Monday following multiple reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Johnny Oliver suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts from emergency medical personnel, Oliver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators spent hours combing the area for evidence, interviewing potential witnesses, and working to piece together what led to the fatal incident. Authorities have not yet released details regarding a suspect or motive, but they confirmed that this is a targeted shooting and not believed to be random.
A Life Cut Short
Johnny Oliver, just 27 years old, is being remembered by friends and family as a charismatic, hardworking, and caring young man with a bright future ahead of him. Known for his infectious laugh and loyalty to those close to him, Johnny had a presence that made people feel seen, heard, and supported. He was a son, a brother, a friend — and now, tragically, another name added to the growing list of young lives taken by gun violence.
“This isn’t just a statistic,” said a family member. “Johnny was our heart. He mattered. And now we’re left with nothing but grief and questions.”
A small memorial has already begun forming at the scene, where candles, handwritten messages, and flowers have been placed by those grieving the loss of a man taken far too soon.
Community in Shock
The killing has sent shockwaves through Dothan, a city that continues to grapple with the rise in violent crime. Residents in the neighborhood where the shooting occurred expressed both heartbreak and frustration. Some called for increased patrols and community engagement, while others stressed the need for resources for youth, mental health support, and stronger neighborhood connections to help prevent future tragedies.
“This violence is tearing us apart,” said one longtime Dothan resident. “We’ve got to find a way to protect our young people and make this community safe again.”
The Search for Justice
As the investigation intensifies, police are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious near the scene to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous by contacting Dothan Police or Crime Stoppers.
“We are committed to finding the person or persons responsible for Johnny Oliver’s death,” said a spokesperson for the Dothan Police Department. “But we need the community’s help.”
The department has not disclosed whether they have any suspects or persons of interest at this time. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and conducting forensic analysis in hopes of making progress in the coming days.
Honoring Johnny’s Life
A candlelight vigil is being planned in honor of Johnny Oliver, with friends, family, and neighbors expected to gather in solidarity, grief, and remembrance. The event will not only be a time to mourn but also a call to action — a plea for peace and unity in a time of growing unrest.
As the investigation into this heartbreaking loss continues, Dothan remembers a young man who should still be here — living, laughing, and building his future.
If you have any information about the shooting death of Johnny Oliver, please contact Dothan Police at (334) 615-3000 or submit a tip to Crime Stoppers at (334) 793-7000.