Meriden police are investigating a deadly daytime shooting that claimed the life of a 22-year-old man Monday afternoon, a violent incident that has left family members grieving and the community searching for answers. Authorities identified the victim as Deron Johnson, who died after being shot in a residential area near the intersection of Cook Avenue and Summer Street.
According to the Meriden Police Department, officers were dispatched to the area at approximately 12:05 p.m. Monday after receiving reports of a shooting. When officers arrived, they found Johnson suffering from at least one gunshot wound, police said. The scene was quickly secured as emergency responders worked to assist the wounded man.
Police officers immediately began life-saving measures while waiting for medical personnel to arrive. The Meriden Fire Department transported Johnson to MidState Medical Center for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of first responders and hospital staff, Johnson later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead, authorities confirmed.
Lt. Darrin McKay of the Meriden Police Department said Johnson’s family has been notified of his death. “The Meriden Police Department offers its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Deron Johnson,” McKay said in a statement released Tuesday. Loved ones are now left mourning a life cut short by gun violence.
The department’s Detective Division has taken over the investigation and is actively working to determine what led to the shooting. Detectives are reviewing evidence from the scene, canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses, and searching for surveillance footage that may provide insight into the moments before and after the gunfire.
Police said that at this time, investigators do not believe there is an ongoing threat to public safety, though the investigation remains active. No arrests have been announced, and authorities have not released information about possible suspects or a motive. Officials emphasized that details will be shared once they are confirmed.
Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Detective Giannakopoulos at 203-630-6339. Police say community cooperation is critical in cases like this, as even small pieces of information can help bring clarity and accountability in a tragedy that has shaken Meriden.
