Tragic Shooting Outside Northwest Miami-Dade Home Leaves 18-Year-Old Neamiah Johnson Paralyzed, Family Calls for Justice as Investigation Continues
MIAMI, FL (WSVN) — April 24, 2025
A young man’s life has been tragically altered after a shooting outside his Northwest Miami-Dade home, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. Neamiah Johnson, an 18-year-old basketball player at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School, was critically injured in the incident that took place late Monday night, near Northwest 27th Avenue and 87th Street.
According to family members, Neamiah was simply going about his routine—cleaning out his mother’s vehicle—when a suspect approached and fired at him, leaving him severely wounded. Gaston Smith, the family’s pastor, described the shocking incident. “All of a sudden — he’s doing his duties by cleaning out his mother’s vehicle — somebody comes by and just shoots him,” Smith said.
The Heartbreaking Details
As Neamiah lay injured, he cried out for help, calling to his mother in desperation. Naytalia Johnson, Neamiah’s mother, recalled the painful moment. “He was saying, ‘Mommy, help me,’” she said through tears.
Paramedics quickly responded to the scene and transported Neamiah to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition. Doctors have informed the family that Neamiah will be paralyzed from the waist down and may never walk again. The news has left the family devastated, as Neamiah, an honor-roll student and athlete with a promising future, now faces an uncertain road to recovery.
A Case of Mistaken Identity
Family members believe that Neamiah may have been a victim of mistaken identity. According to a GoFundMe page set up to support his recovery, Neamiah was shot while retrieving his book bag from his mother’s car. His family speculates that there was no other reason for the attack, especially given Neamiah’s clean record and peaceful nature. “That’s what we are thinking, because there was no other reason for this to happen,” said Gaston Smith.
Despite the harrowing nature of the attack, Neamiah’s family has remained hopeful and resilient. Naytalia shared her heartbreak with 7News on Thursday. “I’m speechless. I’m heartbroken. My baby’s paralyzed, and the doctors are saying he won’t walk again,” she said.
A Bright Future Shattered
Neamiah had a bright future ahead of him. His mother proudly shared that her son had enlisted in the Marines in hopes of supporting his family. “He enlisted in the Marines to take care of his family,” said Naytalia. “He’s never been in trouble before. He’s such a selfless young man and so special, honor roll student.”
Pastor Gaston Smith expressed his devastation over the situation, acknowledging the gravity of the young man’s injuries. “It is devastating, because although he’s here with us, we’re thankful that he’s alive, he’ll be paralyzed,” Smith said. “This is going to change his life forever.”
A Community in Mourning
The community in Northwest Miami-Dade is reeling from the senseless act of violence. Neamiah’s family has called for justice, emphasizing how unfairly their son’s life has been altered. Naytalia voiced the pain and anger she feels over the crime. “I would like justice for him. He was just cleaning out my car, and someone shot him down,” she said.
As the investigation continues, Neamiah’s family and the community are demanding answers. Miami-Dade law enforcement officials have not yet made any arrests, but they have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
A Call for Justice
Neamiah’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to assist with his recovery and the long-term care he will need. The page aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens the family will face as they support Neamiah through his rehabilitation. The emotional and physical toll of the tragedy has left the family needing all the support they can get.
To contribute to Neamiah’s recovery, you can visit the GoFundMe page and make a donation to help with medical expenses and future care.
If you have any information about the shooting or the suspect’s whereabouts, you are urged to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, tips can be submitted anonymously, and there may be a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.
Neamiah’s family remains hopeful that the person responsible for this senseless act of violence will soon be caught, bringing justice to the young man whose life has been tragically changed in an instant.
For updates on the investigation and Neamiah’s recovery, stay tuned.