ROCKINGHAM — Richmond County residents are curious about the details behind the death of a 15-year-old high school student.
The Rockingham Police Department is remaining tight-lipped regarding the death of 10th-grader Casey Glenn Johnson.
According to his obituary, published in the Richmond Observer Jan. 25, Johnson died at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill on Saturday, Jan. 23.
He was, according to his obituary, an honors student, was in J.R.O.T.C. and loved boxing.
The Richmond Observer was made aware of Johnson’s death the night of Sunday, Jan. 24 and contacted the Rockingham Police Department on Monday.
Chief Billy Kelly released a statement through Detective George Gillenwater via text message on Wednesday, Jan. 27: “No determination can be made to the cause of death and we cannot release any details in regards to this incident at this time either.”
When asked for basic details about the investigation, Gillenwater said none could be released “at this time.”
“As we progress we will release further details,” Gillenwater added.
A GoFundMe page was set up prior to Johnson’s death to raise money for medical expenses.
According to the description, Johnson “had a terrible accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury” and was on life support.
All funds are said to go directly to his mother, Michelle Johnson, a nurse and Army veteran, according to the page.
As of Jan. 28, the plea had raised $6,020 of a $10,000 goal from 68 donors.
The Richmond Observer will have more information as it becomes available.
