Justice for Kendrick Johnson

Case Timeline

1. January 10, 2013: Kendrick Johnson’s Untimely Death

Kendrick Johnson, a 17-year-old high school student from Valdosta, Georgia, was found dead inside a rolled-up gym mat at Lowndes High School. His death was initially ruled accidental asphyxiation by the Lowndes County coroner.

2. January 11, 2013: Autopsy Report

The autopsy report released by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) concluded that Kendrick's death was accidental, attributing it to positional asphyxiation while trying to reach for a shoe inside the mat. The findings were met with skepticism by Kendrick’s family.

3. February 2013: Family Raises Concerns

Kendrick's family publicly questioned the findings of the initial investigation, citing concerns about the circumstances of his death and discrepancies in the report. They sought a second opinion and called for an independent investigation.

4. March 2013: Independent Autopsy

The family commissioned an independent autopsy performed by Dr. William Anderson. This report suggested that Kendrick's death could have been caused by blunt force trauma, raising further doubts about the initial findings.

5. April 2013: Initial Investigation Closed

The Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office closed their investigation, maintaining the conclusion of accidental death. The decision sparked protests and calls for further investigation from the community and Kendrick’s supporters.

6. July 2013: Federal Investigation

Under pressure from the public and civil rights organizations, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced they would open a federal investigation into Kendrick’s death to examine potential civil rights violations.

7. October 2013: Family Files Civil Lawsuit

Kendrick's family filed a civil lawsuit against the Lowndes County school district and several officials, alleging wrongful death and civil rights violations. The lawsuit sought to bring attention to the case and hold responsible parties accountable.

8. February 2014: DOJ Statement

The DOJ released a statement indicating that they found no evidence of civil rights violations in Kendrick’s case. This announcement was met with disappointment and frustration from Kendrick’s family and supporters.

9. April 2014: Reopened Investigation

Following persistent public outcry, the case was reopened by the GBI for further investigation. This included re-examining evidence and conducting additional interviews.

10. June 2015: Second Autopsy Findings

A second independent autopsy, conducted by Dr. Michael Baden, confirmed that Kendrick’s death was caused by blunt force trauma. The findings renewed calls for justice and further investigation.

11. December 2016: New Evidence

New evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, was released, suggesting potential tampering with the crime scene and raising questions about the initial investigation’s integrity.

12. April 2018: Documentary Release

The case gained national attention with the release of a documentary film, “Finding Kendrick Johnson,” which detailed the events surrounding Kendrick’s death and the ongoing quest for justice.

13. August 2018: Special Investigation

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) appointed a special investigator to review the case, focusing on new evidence and allegations of mishandling by local authorities.

14. February 2019: Legal Developments

Kendrick’s family continued their legal battle, pushing for the release of additional evidence and a full review of the investigation’s handling. The family’s advocacy efforts led to increased media coverage and public support.

15. June 2020: Public Advocacy Campaign

The Kendrick Johnson Foundation launched a major advocacy campaign to push for justice and transparency, organizing rallies, petition drives, and media outreach to keep the case in the public eye.

16. November 2021: Continued Investigation

Despite numerous investigations and legal actions, the case remains unresolved. The GBI continues to review evidence and respond to new developments, while Kendrick’s family remains committed to seeking justice.

17. Current Status: Ongoing Efforts

The Kendrick Johnson Foundation remains active in advocating for Kendrick and other families affected by similar tragedies. The foundation continues to seek justice, raise awareness, and support efforts to uncover the truth behind Kendrick’s death.

For the latest updates and more information, please visit our GoFundMe page and follow our ongoing efforts to seek justice and honor Kendrick’s legacy.

Kendrick Johnson Foundation – Honoring Kendrick's Life, Pursuing Justice, Inspiring Change.

The Shocking Story of Kendrick Johnson: Details You Didn’t Know About The Teen Found In Gym Mat - Armchair Investigator on YouTube

"Finding Kendrick Johnson" Official Trailer - Gravitas Ventures on YouTube

10 Years Later: The Kendrick Johnson Special - WALB News 10 on YouTube