The Memphis community is mourning the loss of one of their own as Memphis Police Department officer Demetrice Johnson, 34, was tragically killed in a vehicle collision early Friday morning. Newly inducted into the police force in April, following his graduation from the Memphis Police Department Training Academy in March, Johnson was described as someone who had long aspired to be a law enforcement officer, a dream that was cruelly cut short.

According to a report by FOX13, Johnson's sister recounted her brother's unwavering dedication, stating, "He wanted to be a police officer his whole life." At the time of the collision, which occurred around 3 a.m. near the intersection of Danny Thomas Boulevard and Mississippi Boulevard, Johnson had recently gotten to actively serve the community he grew to protect. His commitment to service extended beyond policing, as he was remembered for his work within the church and his generous nature.

Johnson leaves behind a wife and a two-year-old son. Recalling the pain of loss, his sister shared with WREG, "We were just on a FaceTime yesterday, and we were just talking and laughing... We didn't know that this is what we would get not 24 hours later." The collision also claimed the life of the driver of the Nissan involved, who, police say, was suffering from a gunshot wound at the time of the crash – adding layers of complexity to the unfolding investigation.

Johnson's mother, Cassandra Johnson, and his close friend Lamont Darty, both remember him as a well-behaved child and an adult who desired nothing more than to aid those in need. "He was an exceptional kid, very well-behaved, very well respected. I never had a problem with my child," his mother told WREG. Darty, reflecting on Johnson's character, said, "He was just a people person. Anything involving helping people that's what he wanted to do I feel like being a police officer is one of those things that requires helping others in need and that's one thing he always cherished, helping others."

The complexities surrounding the collision are being investigated by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, while the Memphis Police Department's Homicide Bureau seeks to unravel the events leading up to the shooting of the Nissan's driver. As the community reels from the loss, tributes continue to pour in for Officer Demetrice Johnson, a man who embodied the spirit of service both in uniform and beyond.