Longview Man Arrested After Fatal Shooting on Toler Road; Victim Identified as Jonathan Ragland
Longview, TX — A wave of sorrow and concern has swept through Longview following a fatal shooting that left one man dead on Tuesday afternoon. According to the Longview Police Department, officers responded to a shooting call around 2:47 p.m. in the 900 block of Toler Road, where they discovered a tragic scene.
Upon arrival, officers found a man, later identified as Jonathan Ragland, deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. Despite emergency response efforts, Ragland was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
Following the initial chaos, police identified Dalton Chandler Lawrence, 26, of Longview, as the primary suspect. Authorities reported that Lawrence had fled the scene before law enforcement could arrive. After an extensive search and swift investigation, Lawrence was apprehended and taken into custody later that afternoon.
Arrest and Charges
Dalton Lawrence has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Ragland’s death. In addition to the murder charge, police noted that Lawrence had two outstanding warrants from Wood County, further complicating his legal situation. The nature of those warrants has not yet been disclosed.
Lawrence is currently being held in the Gregg County Jail, and authorities have not announced whether bond has been set. Police said the investigation remains active, and additional charges could be forthcoming depending on the outcome of ongoing inquiries.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The fatal shooting has left many in the usually quiet Toler Road area shaken and searching for answers. Neighbors described hearing a loud commotion just before police and emergency vehicles flooded the block.
“I heard the sirens and then saw all the flashing lights,” said Angela Moss, a nearby resident. “It’s heartbreaking to know someone lost their life so close to home. It’s not something you expect around here.”
Investigators have not released details about what led up to the shooting, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. They are asking anyone with information that could assist the case — whether it be eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, or other tips — to contact the Longview Police Department at 903-237-1199.
“We are urging anyone who might have seen or heard something unusual around the time of the incident to come forward,” said Sergeant James Burks of the Longview Police Department. “Even the smallest detail could be crucial as we work to bring full justice for the victim and his family.”
Remembering Jonathan Ragland
Friends and family of Jonathan Ragland are mourning the sudden and senseless loss. Ragland was known for his friendly demeanor and his dedication to his family. Those close to him described him as “someone who always had a smile to offer and a hand to lend.”
“He didn’t deserve this,” said Michelle Anderson, a longtime family friend. “Jonathan had a kind heart. We’re all still in shock that he’s really gone.”
Plans for a memorial service to honor Ragland’s life are underway, with family members asking for privacy as they grieve. A GoFundMe campaign has been started to help cover funeral expenses, and community members have rallied to support the family during this devastating time.
A Community Searching for Healing
The shooting death of Jonathan Ragland has reignited conversations about violence in the community and the importance of conflict resolution and mental health support. Longview residents are calling for peace and unity, urging each other to lean on neighbors and law enforcement to prevent further tragedy.
As the investigation into this heartbreaking case continues, the Longview Police Department is determined to piece together the full story and ensure that justice is served for Jonathan Ragland.