Victims Identified in Shively Apartment Shooting: Sabrie Johnson, Simeon Watson, and Mia Lee Tragically Killed in Gunfire Incident

Shively, KY (February 20, 2025) — In a devastating and senseless act of violence, three young individuals, Sabrie Johnson (18), Simeon Watson (19), and Mia Lee (18), were tragically killed in a shooting at an apartment complex located in Shively, Kentucky. The incident occurred on the evening of Monday, February 17, 2025, at around 5:20 p.m., and has left the local community in shock as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office officially confirmed the identities of the victims on Tuesday, February 19, 2025. Each of the victims succumbed to gunshot wounds, and the cause of death for all three individuals has been ruled as homicide. The tragic event has sparked outrage and grief throughout the community, as the loss of these young lives has left a deep scar in the hearts of their families, friends, and the broader Shively neighborhood.

The Shively Police Department (SPD) responded to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire at the apartment complex situated in the 2200 block of Crums Lane, just off of Dixie Highway. Upon arriving, SPD officers discovered the bodies of Sabrie Johnson, Simeon Watson, and Mia Lee inside an apartment, all of whom were suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Despite immediate emergency response efforts, the victims were declared dead at the scene.

As the investigation progresses, the Shively Police Department has yet to identify any suspects, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators have been working tirelessly to uncover leads, including speaking with residents of the apartment complex and reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area. The SPD has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, providing a tip line for those who may have seen or heard anything unusual on the evening of the shooting.

Victims’ Profiles and Lasting Impact on the Community

The victims, all in their late teens, were residents of the Crums Lane area. While their specific addresses have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that both Mia Lee and Simeon Watson lived within the same block on Crums Lane, and it is believed that Sabrie Johnson was also part of the local community.

Mia Lee, just 18 years old, was known for her vibrant and outgoing personality. Family and friends described her as someone who always lit up a room with her infectious smile and positive attitude. Mia’s untimely passing has left her loved ones devastated, with many expressing disbelief at how such a bright and promising life was taken too soon. Friends have shared that Mia had recently graduated from high school and was excited about her future, particularly pursuing her passion for graphic design. She was described as a hard-working and creative individual who had big dreams of one day opening her own design studio. Mia’s sudden and tragic death has shaken those who knew her, leaving a void in the community that will be difficult to fill.

Simeon Watson, also 19 years old, was remembered by those who knew him as a caring and loyal friend. A former high school athlete, Simeon was well-liked by his peers and known for his love of sports, particularly basketball. His friends have described him as someone who would always offer support when needed, and he was often the first to offer a helping hand to others in times of difficulty. Simeon had plans to pursue a career in law enforcement and had even discussed enrolling in college to study criminal justice. His untimely death has left his family heartbroken, as he was an integral part of their lives, and the loss of his potential and kind-hearted nature has left an indelible mark on the community.

Sabrie Johnson, the youngest of the three victims, was 18 years old at the time of her death. Known for her intelligence and determination, Sabrie was a student at a local high school and had dreams of becoming a nurse. Her family and friends spoke highly of her work ethic and compassion, particularly for her desire to help others in her future career. Sabrie was described as someone who was always looking out for her loved ones and went out of her way to make others feel included and valued. Her tragic death has left her family in profound grief, as they now struggle to cope with the loss of their beloved daughter and sister.

The Investigation: A Race Against Time

The Shively Police Department, along with the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, has been working diligently to gather information regarding the circumstances of the shooting. As of now, investigators have not disclosed a clear motive for the crime, leaving many to speculate about the possible reasons behind this violent incident. There are still many questions surrounding the events that led to the deaths of these three young individuals, and authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their search for answers.

One significant piece of evidence in the investigation is the surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residents. Police have been reviewing video footage in the hopes of identifying potential witnesses or suspects who may have been in the area during the time of the shooting. Additionally, detectives have been conducting interviews with residents of the apartment complex to gather any helpful information regarding the victims’ interactions or anyone who may have been seen near their apartment on the evening of February 17.

The SPD is also urging the public to come forward with any information, whether it be directly related to the shooting or any suspicious activity in the area around that time. The tip line for those with information is 502-930-2773, and tips can also be submitted anonymously through online platforms. Authorities are especially interested in speaking with anyone who may have heard gunshots or noticed unusual activity in the hours leading up to the incident.

In the absence of clear answers, the Shively Police Department is asking the community to remain patient and vigilant as they continue their investigation. The department has emphasized the importance of working together to ensure that those responsible for this tragedy are held accountable. As time goes on, it is hoped that more clues will emerge to shed light on what happened that fateful evening.

Community Reactions: Shock and Grief Across Shively

The shooting has sent shockwaves throughout the small city of Shively, a close-knit community where many residents are still reeling from the news. As word spread about the deaths of Sabrie, Simeon, and Mia, friends, family, and neighbors expressed disbelief and sorrow over the loss of three young lives. Vigils and memorials have been organized in honor of the victims, with members of the community coming together to show their support and solidarity with the grieving families.

Local schools have also been impacted by the deaths, particularly as several of the victims were students. The tragic event has prompted counselors and mental health professionals to offer support to students and faculty members who may be struggling to process the enormity of what has occurred. The loss of such young individuals has highlighted the prevalence of gun violence in communities across the nation, and it has sparked a broader conversation about how to address the root causes of such senseless tragedies.

The Aftermath: What Comes Next?

As the investigation continues, questions about the safety of the community and the broader issues of gun violence in urban areas remain at the forefront of public discussion. The tragic deaths of Sabrie Johnson, Simeon Watson, and Mia Lee have raised concerns about the risks that young people face in their daily lives, particularly when it comes to the proliferation of firearms and the ease with which violence can erupt in places that are supposed to be safe havens.

At the same time, there is a sense of urgency among community leaders to address the underlying factors that contribute to violent incidents like this one. While the investigation remains ongoing, there is a growing call for greater measures to reduce gun violence, improve mental health resources, and create safe spaces for young people. The loss of these three individuals serves as a painful reminder that more must be done to prevent tragedies like this from occurring in the future.

As the days and weeks go by, the families of Sabrie, Simeon, and Mia will continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones. Their grief is shared by countless others who knew the victims, as well as by the larger Shively community, which is now left to cope with the aftermath of this devastating incident. The memory of these three young individuals will live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and the search for justice continues as authorities work tirelessly to bring those responsible for their deaths to account.

In conclusion, the shooting that occurred at the Shively apartment complex on February 17, 2025, has left the community in shock and mourning. Sabrie Johnson, Simeon Watson, and Mia Lee, all young lives full of promise, were taken too soon in a senseless act of violence. As the investigation unfolds, the people of Shively remain hopeful that justice will be served, while also grappling with the grief and sadness that this tragedy has brought to their doorstep.