Lions Wide Receiver Maurice Alexander Jr. Mourns Tragic Loss of Nephew in Florida Shooting
Detroit Lions wide receiver Maurice Alexander Jr. shared heartbreaking news on January 6, 2025, revealing that his 13-year-old nephew, Johvan “Woodah” Taylor, was fatally shot in Florida City.
In an emotional post on X, Alexander wrote, “💔 Never been this crushed in my life,” alongside a link to a CBS News Miami report about the tragedy.
A Young Life Cut Short
Johvan Taylor, who celebrated his 13th birthday in November, was described as a vibrant and loving child by his family. He played football for the Florida City Razorbacks, a little league team.
“Just his personality, that smile, who he was as a person—very bold, outspoken, good child, good grades,” family friend Cheryl Walker said during a vigil held in his memory. “He was at my house every day. I just wish he had come last night; it might’ve been a different story.”
Taylor’s aunt, Jakilah Brady, expressed disbelief, saying, “I’m just confused, in shock. I don’t believe it. It feels like a dream. … He was so happy, lived a good life, and didn’t deserve this. If you know anything, please come forward.”
Known affectionately as “Woodah,” Taylor’s family pleaded for help in finding justice. “He was always willing to help others,” Brady told CBS Miami. “Now, we need help to get closure and justice for him.”
A Senseless Act of Violence
According to Florida City Police, Taylor was shot on January 4 when gunfire erupted into a group of children. Another child was also injured in the incident. Reports indicate Taylor was eating on a porch when the shots were fired, prompting him to run before being critically struck. He was airlifted to Jackson South Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. near Northwest 13th Street and Sixth Avenue, and no arrests have been made. Authorities are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and have urged anyone with information to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
“We won’t be okay until someone speaks up, until we get justice and closure,” Brady said. “He was not the kind of child to deserve this.”
Maurice Alexander’s NFL Journey
Alexander, a native of Florida City, has faced a difficult start to the new year as he mourns this tragic loss. He rejoined the Lions’ practice squad in December after spending much of the season moving between the active roster and practice squad. The wide receiver appeared in three games, contributing on special teams with 42 punt return yards.
Alexander, who went undrafted in 2020 after a collegiate career at Florida International University, initially signed with the Lions in 2022 following a stint in the USFL.
As the investigation continues, Taylor’s family remains focused on finding answers and honoring the memory of a bright young life taken far too soon.
