Arrest Made in Connection with Shooting Death of 17-Year-Old in Lexington

Lexington, Ky. – An arrest has been made in connection with the death of 17-year-old Kenlon Johnson, who was fatally shot outside a residence on Rockaway Place in March. The accused, 19-year-old Jon’tay Mattingly, was taken into custody after Lexington Police identified him through their Real-Time Intelligence Center.

According to Johnson’s mother, Zanobia Simpson, the past eight months have been a challenging journey filled with uncertainty and heartache. She had anticipated celebrating her son’s educational achievements, including his high school diploma and acceptance into college. Instead, she received updates on the investigation into his death.

On the night of October 31, Simpson was informed of Mattingly’s arrest. She stated that her son and Mattingly were friends who had grown up together. “They [were] literally friends,” she noted. Despite the arrest, Simpson believes that other individuals were involved in the shooting, emphasizing that full justice has yet to be achieved.

“It’s probably going to take a little longer, but all of them arrested. That’s justice,” said Simpson, underscoring her hope for further arrests related to the case. She has expressed her desire for closure and clarity, stating that she has not been informed of a motive behind the shooting that led to her son’s tragic death.

Simpson offered advice for other parents facing similar situations: “Just pray. That’s all I’ve been able to just do is pray,” she reflected, conveying the emotional toll of waiting for answers in the wake of such loss.

As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the reality of the violence that has touched their lives, while Simpson remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice for her son.