The Tragic Timeline: What Was 23 Rackz's Cause Of Death And The Latest Update On His Murder Case?

The tragic death of 23 Rackz, the promising 16-year-old rapper from Washington, D.C., sent shockwaves through the DMV music community and the wider hip-hop scene. On May 26, 2022, the young artist, whose real name was Justin Johnson, was fatally shot in a horrific act of violence that cut short a career poised for national recognition. The circumstances surrounding his death—reportedly occurring while filming a music video—highlighted the perilous intersection of street life and rising fame in the modern rap industry. As of December 2025, the legal proceedings related to the homicide have moved forward significantly, providing a definitive cause of death and a clearer path to justice for his family. The official cause of death for 23 Rackz was determined to be a fatal gunshot wound, ruled a homicide by authorities. The case has been a focal point for discussions about gun violence and the dangers of social media usage among young artists, particularly after reports indicated the shooting may have been linked to a social media post revealing his location.

Comprehensive Biography and Music Career of 23 Rackz

Justin Johnson, known professionally as 23 Rackz, was a dynamic and rapidly rising figure in the Washington, D.C. hip-hop scene. His music offered a raw, unfiltered look at life in the Southeast D.C. area, quickly earning him a dedicated following and the attention of established industry figures.

• Full Name: Justin Johnson
• Stage Name: 23 Rackz
• Age at Death: 16 years old
• Date of Death: May 26, 2022
• Location of Death: 2200 block of Savannah Terrace, Southeast Washington, D.C.
• Cause of Death: Fatal Gunshot Wound (Homicide)
• Genre: Hip Hop, Trap
• Key Projects/Albums: Rookie of the Year (2021), Act Out (2023 - Posthumous), 4 Justin (2025 - Posthumous)
• Notable Songs: "Dark," "Locked In Wit Killerz," "No Favors," "Still Trappin," "When Tf?..."
• Career Highlight: Signed a record deal with a label prior to his death.
• Tributes: Fellow DMV artist Wale and other community figures publicly mourned his loss.

Despite his youth, 23 Rackz had already demonstrated a mature artistic voice and significant commercial potential. His 2021 project, *Rookie of the Year*, cemented his status as a local star, blending aggressive beats with compelling storytelling. His posthumous releases, such as the 2025 single "4 Justin," serve as a poignant reminder of the talent that was lost and continue to resonate with his fanbase, establishing his legacy.

The Confirmed Cause of Death: A Homicide Investigation

The circumstances surrounding 23 Rackz’s death are a chilling example of how quickly violence can erupt. On the morning of May 26, 2022, Justin Johnson was in the 2200 block of Savannah Terrace in Southeast D.C., reportedly filming a music video, a common activity for rising artists looking to promote their new material. The confirmed cause of death was a fatal gunshot wound, sustained during a targeted attack. DC Police and emergency services confirmed that he was found shot just before 11:30 a.m. The incident was quickly classified as a homicide, prompting a major investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Early reports suggested a possible motive linked to social media. It was revealed that 23 Rackz had posted his location to Instagram earlier that morning, a practice that, tragically, can be exploited by those intending harm. This detail became a significant focus of the investigation, leading to the identification and subsequent indictment of several individuals. The case highlighted the severe risks young rappers face, where online presence can inadvertently lead to real-world threats and violence.

Latest Updates on the Justin Johnson Murder Case (December 2025)

The most crucial and up-to-date information regarding the death of 23 Rackz centers on the legal outcome of the homicide case. Authorities pursued charges against multiple individuals involved in the shooting, demonstrating a commitment to holding those responsible accountable.

The Guilty Pleas and Indictments

The investigation led to the indictment of several individuals, including Derrico Johnson and Ronald Henderson, on charges related to the murder of Justin Johnson. In a major development, four defendants ultimately pleaded guilty to various charges connected to the killing. Specifically, Derrico Johnson and Ronald Henderson both pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed for the killing of 16-year-old Justin Johnson. This plea agreement, which occurred well after the initial incident, is the most recent and definitive legal action in the case, confirming the criminal nature of the rapper's death.

The Impact of the Legal Outcome

The guilty pleas mark a significant step toward closure for the family of Justin Johnson, who had been vocal about the need for justice. The father of 23 Rackz, Michael Johnson, had previously spoken out about his son's inability to "stay out of the streets" despite his rising music career and record deal, underscoring the complex challenges facing youth in the area. The successful prosecution, culminating in guilty pleas for second-degree murder, reinforces the severity of the crime and the commitment of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia to address gun violence. As of late 2025, the focus shifts to the sentencing phase, where the court will determine the final prison terms for the convicted individuals.

The Legacy of 23 Rackz and the D.C. Music Scene

While his life was tragically short, 23 Rackz left an indelible mark on the DMV music scene. His sound, characterized by its authentic D.C. flair, continues to influence local artists and resonate with listeners. His death is a painful reminder of the epidemic of gun violence that affects many communities and the vulnerability of young, talented individuals caught between the promise of a music career and the realities of their environment. Tributes from peers and fans continue to flow, honoring his memory and his potential.

Key Entities and Topical Authority:

• DMV Rapper: The regional scene (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) that 23 Rackz represented.
• Gun Violence Epidemic: The broader social issue his death became a symbol of.
• Social Media Geotagging: The dangerous practice of sharing one's location online.
• Metropolitan Police Department (MPD): The agency that handled the homicide investigation.
• Second-Degree Murder While Armed: The specific charge to which the defendants pleaded guilty.
• Savannah Terrace: The specific location in Southeast D.C. where the shooting occurred.
• Wale: The established D.C. artist who publicly mourned 23 Rackz.

In conclusion, the cause of death for 23 Rackz was a fatal gunshot wound sustained in a targeted homicide on May 26, 2022. The case has reached a critical stage with the guilty pleas of defendants Derrico Johnson and Ronald Henderson to second-degree murder while armed, bringing the two-year legal battle closer to a resolution. His music, particularly the *Rookie of the Year* project, ensures his voice and story will not be forgotten.