**Sad News: 16-Year-Old Boy Shot and Killed Near Florida Panthers Arena**
**SUNRISE, FL** — A tragic incident unfolded in Sunrise, Florida, earlier this evening, as a 16-year-old boy was shot and killed in the vicinity of the **Florida Panthers’ home arena**. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and has left many questioning the circumstances surrounding the young victim’s death.
Authorities confirmed that the shooting took place around **6:45 PM** on March 21, 2025, near the **BB&T Center**, where the Florida Panthers play. Police responded swiftly to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots. Upon arrival, they found the teenage victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to provide medical assistance at the scene, the young boy was later pronounced dead.
### Law Enforcement Investigates
The victim, identified as **Aaron “AJ” Johnson**, was a local high school student known for his love of sports and his close-knit group of friends. The Broward County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, though few details about the shooting have been released to the public as of now. Investigators are examining the area for evidence and interviewing potential witnesses.
“We are deeply saddened by this senseless loss of a young life,” said **Sheriff Gregory Tony**. “Our detectives are working tirelessly to gather information, and we are asking anyone who may have seen or heard something to come forward and help us piece together what happened.”
As of now, there have been no reports of any suspects or arrests. Authorities are still piecing together the events leading up to the shooting, and whether this was a random act of violence or a targeted incident remains unclear.
### Community in Shock
The shooting has left residents of Sunrise and the surrounding areas in disbelief, especially considering the incident’s proximity to the Florida Panthers’ home arena. Fans who had gathered nearby for a game against a rival team were left shaken as news of the tragedy spread. The Panthers’ game was delayed briefly as authorities took control of the area, but the arena and surrounding businesses were otherwise unaffected.
Friends and family of the victim have been posting tributes to social media, describing Aaron Johnson as a bright and talented teenager with a promising future. “AJ was a good kid. He always had a smile on his face, and he was a leader among his friends,” said one close friend, who spoke under condition of anonymity. “It just doesn’t make sense. He didn’t deserve this.”
Many friends of Aaron have shared that he had a passion for sports, particularly basketball, and was a dedicated student at **Sunrise High School**. His peers are struggling to come to terms with the loss.
“This is devastating,” said **Brianna Taylor**, a classmate of Aaron’s. “He was a really kind person. I can’t believe this is happening. We were supposed to go to the movies together this weekend. Now he’s gone, and we’re all heartbroken.”
### Impact on the Panthers’ Community
The Florida Panthers organization has also expressed their condolences in light of the tragedy. In a brief statement, the team shared their deep sorrow over the incident: “The Florida Panthers organization is heartbroken by the tragic loss of a young life near our home arena. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Panthers are in the process of organizing support for the community and will be honoring Aaron’s memory at an upcoming home game. The team also extended their support to local law enforcement as they continue their investigation into the shooting.
### Calls for Action
This shooting has reignited concerns about gun violence in South Florida, especially involving young people. Local leaders have expressed their shock at the incident and are calling for greater community outreach programs to prevent violence and help guide teenagers away from dangerous situations.
“Too many young lives are being lost to gun violence in our community. We need to do more to protect our youth,” said **State Senator Lauren Book**. “This is a tragedy that could have been avoided with better intervention, education, and support systems for at-risk youth.”
Several community organizations have already begun discussing ways to provide assistance to the victim’s family and work toward preventing future violence.
“Today we mourn the loss of a child. Tomorrow, we need to be committed to changing the environment that allows these tragedies to occur,” said **Rev. James Smith**, a local community activist. “The death of Aaron Johnson is a wake-up call for us all.”
### Funeral Arrangements and Community Support
As the investigation continues, the family of Aaron Johnson has been receiving an outpouring of support. Family members have not yet released funeral arrangements but have expressed their gratitude for the community’s help during this difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with funeral expenses and to support the grieving family.
Local residents and friends of Aaron are also organizing a memorial to celebrate his life and offer condolences to his family. The memorial will be held in Sunrise, and many are expected to attend to pay their respects.
### Next Steps in the Investigation
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office has not yet released any additional details but is urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has any information to contact Crime Stoppers at **1-954-493-TIPS** or submit tips online.
Authorities continue to stress that they will leave no stone unturned as they work to uncover what led to this senseless tragedy.
“We are committed to bringing justice to Aaron Johnson’s family and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” said Sheriff Tony.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, and the community of Sunrise is left grieving the loss of a promising young life.
