Tamir Johnson

By Jillian Pikora From Daily Voice

A former Kutztown University basketball standout was shot and killed early Sunday morning in downtown Allentown during what authorities describe as a violent road rage incident.

Tamir R. Johnson, 35, of Whitehall Township, was found with a gunshot wound near the 500 block of West Hamilton Street around 3:37 a.m. on Sunday, July 6, according to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office.

He was transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest, where he was pronounced dead at 4:51 a.m. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the torso, and the manner of death has been ruled a homicide.

🛣️ Altercation Turns Deadly

Investigators say the incident began as both vehicles—a silver Audi driven by Johnson and a dark-colored Toyota Prius—were traveling west on the 400 block of West Hamilton Street. As they crossed 5th Street, Johnson allegedly forced the Prius to the curb and stopped. He then exited his vehicle carrying a metal bat resembling those used in baseball training and struck the driver's side door of the Prius.

The driver of the Prius, who possesses a valid license to carry, fired a single round from a 9mm handgun, striking Johnson in the torso. The shooter then drove approximately one and a half blocks away, pulled over, and called 911. He remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. No charges have been filed, and on Monday, July 31, the investigation concluded the shooting was justified and in self-defense. Click here to read our follow report on the investigation.

🏀 Remembering a 'Quiet Giant'

Johnson was a standout forward for Kutztown University’s men’s basketball team from 2009 to 2011. In his senior season, he led the team in both scoring (15.9 points per game) and rebounding (8.9 rebounds per game), ranking among the top 10 players in the PSAC in both categories. He recorded nine double-doubles that season and scored a career-high 30 points in a win over Mansfield.

Known for his efficiency, Johnson led the PSAC in field goal percentage at 62.4% during his time at Kutztown. He was named to the All-PSAC East First Team and was honored twice as PSAC East Player of the Week.

In a statement, Kutztown University said:

"We are aware of the tragic news regarding KU basketball alumnus Tamir Johnson. During his time at KU, Tamir was a tremendous leader, quality individual, and an outstanding student-athlete. Our hearts go out to Tamir’s family, friends, and everyone impacted by this incident."
💔 Community Mourns

Family and friends expressed their grief on social media. One cousin wrote:

"Life is crazy because I just screenshotted this the other day! Cousinnn 🥺 I’m so sorry! Since my BD shot at me you made sure to keep checking on me & the baby. We are not ready for this one Tamir… you will truly be missed."

Another added:

"Robin Johnson, my condolences to you cousin. I love you 💐… God got you. I’m sorry you have to even endure this pain 💔."

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Allentown detectives.

Daily Voice has reached out to the family and offers them the opportunity to share more details about Tamir by emailing jpikora@dailyvoice.com.