Tyrese Johnson Obituary, Death – Waco authorities have released more details following a tragic incident that occurred early Wednesday morning, resulting in one man’s passing and another facing criminal charges. The Waco Police Department identified the victim as 24-year-old Tyrese Johnson, who lost his life after an accidental firearm discharge inside a residence. The incident also led to the arrest of Joshua Chappell, 24, who now faces a manslaughter charge in connection with the event.
According to police, the situation unfolded just after midnight, at approximately 12:20 a.m., when officers were called to the 2400 block of South 21st Street in Waco. Upon arriving, they discovered Johnson unresponsive with a gunshot wound. Emergency responders immediately began life-saving efforts, performing CPR while waiting for medical personnel to arrive. Johnson was transported for further care but was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators determined that the gun involved was a rifle, which went off while being handled inside the home. Based on preliminary findings, officers believe the incident was not intentional but stemmed from careless handling of the weapon. Detectives quickly identified Chappell as the individual responsible and took him into custody without incident.
According to an arrest affidavit, three people were in the living room when the event occurred. A woman who was present at the time told officers that Chappell had been handling the rifle in a playful or careless manner, reportedly pointing it toward others in the room and pretending to make shooting sounds. During this time, the weapon discharged, striking Johnson. The woman immediately called for help as another man who had been sleeping in a nearby room woke up and dialed 911 for assistance. Dispatchers provided instructions on how to administer CPR, which he performed until officers arrived to take over the effort.
Authorities have not indicated that there was any argument or confrontation before the incident, describing it instead as a tragic mishandling of a firearm. Waco Police spokespersons emphasized the importance of proper gun safety, noting that even experienced individuals must always treat weapons as loaded and avoid pointing them in anyone’s direction under any circumstance.
Following the investigation at the scene, officers arrested Chappell and transported him to the McLennan County Jail, where he was booked on a manslaughter charge. His bond has been set at $50,000. The police department continues to investigate the case and review the sequence of events leading up to the discharge.
Waco authorities also noted that this type of incident serves as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can occur when firearms are not handled responsibly. They urged residents to always secure firearms, verify that they are unloaded before cleaning or displaying them, and never handle them in a careless or joking manner.
Police officials have not yet released details regarding memorial or funeral arrangements for Johnson but extended condolences to his family and friends. “Our hearts go out to those affected by this devastating loss,” said a department representative. “This is an incredibly painful situation for everyone involved, and our detectives are working to ensure all facts are properly reviewed.”
The investigation remains open, and authorities are awaiting additional forensic analysis of the firearm and other evidence collected from the home. Anyone with further information about the case is encouraged to contact the Waco Police Department or Crime Stoppers to assist investigators.
This marks one of several recent firearm-related incidents in Central Texas that police have described as preventable with more caution and adherence to safety procedures. As of now, no additional arrests are expected, but the department is continuing to evaluate all circumstances surrounding the event.
