Two suspects have been arrested and charged in connection with the May 3 death of of Jimmie E. Johnson III, according to the Springfield Police Department.
Just before 2 a.m. on May 3, police officers responded to a report that Johnson, 42, had been shot at 2304 N. National Ave. Johnson was transported to a Springfield hospital and later died from his injuries. His death marked the fifth homicide investigation in Springfield in 2023.
The Springfield Police Department Homicide Unit identified two suspects, and the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office reviewed both cases and they were subsequently charged.
Payne R. Morse, 22, was arrested on May 3, and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and tampering with evidence. Morse is being held at the Greene County Jail with a $50,000 bond, according to police. Court records show Morse is on probation for leaving the scene of a vehicle accident in 2021.
On Thursday, May 4, Ronald L. Curnow, 23, was arrested and charged with first degree murder and with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Curnow is also being held at the Greene County Jail but without bond, according to police.
A Springfield Police Department news release reminds the public that the charges contained in the felony complaints are allegations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.