Dianne Northfleet broke down talking about the man she raised, Johnny Taz Brown.
“Help us bring closure, Lord. They don't know where we're going through. Nobody knows what we're going through,” said Northfleet. “My nephew had a heart of gold. He would give you the shirt off his back and the shoes and socks off of his feet.”
But a month ago, police say someone tracked Brown to an apartment complex on 55th Street North. He was hit by multiple bullets as he sat in his car. It happened at around 4 a.m. and because of the early hour police could not find any witnesses.
But Lt. Charles Coeyman with the St. Petersburg Police Department said, “There are numerous children and families that live in this neighborhood and it is a relatively quiet apartment complex. One stray bullet could have been a tragedy for another family.” said Lt. Coeyman.
Lt. Coeyman also said that Brown was targeted.
“This was a cold blooded ambush and an act of senseless violence,” said Lt. Coeyman.
The Brown family made a public plea on Tuesday as the police announced up to $3000 reward for any information leading to the suspect or suspects.
“If there is anyone out there knows anything can you please come forward we are begging you,” said Sheila Williams, Brown’s cousin.
Brown has 12 children. His youngest is one month old.
"His children are his world. He was taken away from them. They're lost. They don't know what to do,” said Williams.
Northfleet added, “You know who you are and somebody knows who you are. Will you please please contact the St. Petersburg Police Department and help us get closure."
Brown grew up in St. Petersburg. His family said he gave back all the time holding barbecues at the car wash in hopes of helping others.
