(Citrus County, FL) Today, a Citrus County jury found 37-year-old Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr. guilty of Second-Degree Murder with a Firearm. This verdict follows the detailed investigation into the death of 33-year-old Traske C. Johnson, who was gunned down outside his business. After the verdict was rendered, Ross was remanded into custody to await his sentencing on February 24, 2026.

Ross’ charge stems from the Colonial Plaza shooting that took place on May 28, 2024, in Inverness, Florida. Deputies from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to the plaza after it was reported that a shooting had occurred. Upon their arrival, deputies found the male victim, later identified as Traske C. Johnson, in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. Johnson was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The defendant, Dwann D. Ross Jr., was identified on scene and quickly detained by deputies. Detectives from the CCSO Criminal Investigations Division arrived shortly after to begin their investigation. While speaking with the defendant, he claimed self-defense, alleging the victim as the aggressor.

Evidence collected during the investigation revealed that both men, who operated separate businesses within Colonial Plaza, had been involved in a brief physical altercation. During this confrontation, Ross retrieved a handgun and shot Johnson several times.

Further investigation into the events leading up to the shooting revealed that Ross and the victim had a heated text exchange. Investigators learned through various messages and witness testimony that the defendant was upset with the victim for allegedly telling a female companion that the defendant was romantically involved with multiple women. After being presented with this evidence and interviewed by detectives, Ross was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.

During a Stand Your Ground hearing in August of 2025, the defendant’s motion to drop the case was denied after the court determined Ross was never justified in his use of the firearm.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Blake Shore and Kevin Davis.

Published on 01/15/2026.