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Inverness Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Man Sentenced to Life for Inverness Murder
Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr. receives life sentence for second-degree murder of Traske C. Johnson
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr., 37, was sentenced to life in prison for the second-degree murder of Traske C. Johnson, 33, in a shooting that occurred at Colonial Plaza in Inverness, Florida on May 28, 2024. The case highlights the dangers of escalating personal conflicts, the role of digital communication in fueling disputes, and the broader issue of gun violence.
Why it matters
This incident underscores how quickly personal disagreements can turn deadly, particularly when combined with the pressures of business ownership. It also highlights the increasing role of digital communication in fueling conflicts and the broader pattern of escalating violence where firearms are used to resolve disputes. The case has undoubtedly impacted the local business community, raising questions about the importance of conflict resolution strategies.
The details
Prosecutors noted the dispute originated from a perceived violation of a 'bro-code', with Ross claiming Johnson was the aggressor. However, evidence revealed a different narrative - Ross intentionally retrieved a handgun and shot Johnson multiple times during a confrontation in the Colonial Plaza parking lot. The investigation uncovered a 'heated text exchange' between the two men prior to the shooting.
- The shooting occurred on May 28, 2024 at Colonial Plaza in Inverness, Florida.
- Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr. was sentenced on February 25, 2026.
The players
Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr.
A 37-year-old Florida man who was sentenced to life in prison for the second-degree murder of Traske C. Johnson.
Traske C. Johnson
A 33-year-old man who was fatally shot by Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr. in the Colonial Plaza parking lot.
Blake Shore
An Assistant State Attorney who successfully prosecuted the case against Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr.
Kevin Davis
An Assistant State Attorney who successfully prosecuted the case against Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr.
Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO)
The law enforcement agency that investigated the shooting at Colonial Plaza.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
