LOWNDES COUNTY, Ala. (WSFA) – Years of study, a week of testimony and days of deliberations have failed to reach a verdict in the capital murder case of William Chase Johnson. Judge Bert Rice, after all mistrial declared Tuesday morning.

It’s unknown when Johnson will face a jury again for a new trial, only that the judge wants it to happen in April or October 2025.

This news hit those in Lowndes County who knew John “Big John” Williams. The 62-year-old sheriff was a beloved member of the community for decades.

News of the mistrial stirred up many different emotions in the close-knit community. People talked about what a good sheriff he was and how much he loved the people he served. As Lowndes County Commission Chairman Charlie King Jr. stated, “Loss will never leave us. It will always be here.”

The split jury disappointed many in the community.

“From what I see today, there is no justice,” King said.

“This is a slap in the face to the citizens of Lowndes County, and we are angry, we are sad, we are angry,” said community activist Barbara Evans.

Others echoed those sentiments, saying Johnson was not held accountable.

Both the defense and prosecution agreed that Johnson fired the gun that killed Williams on November 23, 2019. The difference that stunned the jury was the motive. Johnson testified that it was self-defense and that he did not know Williams was a law enforcement officer.

Williams was shot when he encountered Johnson at a gas station. Johnson said Williams pointed a gun at him, causing him to fear for his life.

The prosecution disputed that version of events, saying Williams made it clear he was acting in his capacity as a lawman.

No matter what happens in the courtroom, the community Williams served will never forget him.

“And his legacy will continue. We’re going to keep this going,” King said. He says he hopes justice will eventually be served and calls on all of Lowndes County to stand in solidarity.

Although there was a gag order preventing Lowndes County Sheriff Christopher West from commenting, other Alabama sheriffs wanted to express their feelings about the hearing, which brought back memories of their deceased colleagues.

“If you were going to pick anyone to be sheriff, then he would be your guy,” said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, who said he still feels Williams’ impact every day. “We miss him every day.”

The sheriffs of Montgomery and Dale counties had similar sentiments and attended parts of the hearing.

Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham described his brother in blue as a man who wanted to be a fixture in the community.

Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum recalled being there the night his colleague died and said: “To have a brother die like that, you can’t put it into words.”

None of the sheriffs said they were happy with the mistrial, but they don’t blame the jury. They all said they believed justice would eventually prevail.

For the capital murder charge, Johnson will remain behind bars until a new trial can be convened.

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