Nearly two months after a loved one was murdered in Donelson, the family is demanding justice

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nearly two months after 20-year-old Xavier Johnson was killed at a short-term rental in Donelson, his family continues to seek justice as Metro Police investigate the cold case.

Johnson's grandfather, Garry Butler, said it has been difficult moving forward, but he is trying to stay positive and hold on to the memories of their time together.

“I know he's saying, 'Come on, Pop, don't start crying,'” Butler said.

According to Metro Police, Johnson was lured to a property on Maplecrest Drive by a woman in the early morning hours. When they reached the back of the rental property, a gunman was waiting for them and shot Johnson several times. According to police, the woman and the shooter fled the scene together.

“It's been almost two months and they still haven't caught those who did this to my grandson,” Butler said.

Butler and Johnson were very close and shared a close bond through church. Butler says he still finds comfort in watching videos of his grandson preaching.

“When we see how much time we spent together in church and how he read the scriptures before we got up to serve, it brings peace and comfort, because these are things the enemy could never take from us,” said Butler.

Family and friends gathered in Centennial Park on Saturday to remember Johnson's life and released royal blue and gold balloons in his honor – colors he said he loved.

“We know he liked those colors too,” Butler said.

During the memorial service, the family prayed for justice and expressed their faith that those responsible will be found.

“Anyone who was involved will be caught and taken prisoner,” Butler said. “Meanwhile, the Bible says the righteous should live by faith.”

Johnson's mother, Okimo Brockelman, offered a short tribute at the event: “Long live my Arabian prince.”

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.

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