Fallen Oklahoma police sergeant to be honored with apparel fundraiser for his family

SMITHFIELD, N.C. - July 1, 2020 - PRLog -- One of two officers shot during a traffic stop in Tulsa, Oklahoma this week will be honored with a special fundraiser after succumbing to his injuries.

Sergeant Craig Johnson of the Tulsa Police Department died on Tuesday, June 30 after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head two days earlier.

Through American lifestyle brand Shield Republic Charities' "Hold the Line" apparel fundraiser, Sgt. Johnson will be honored with the sale of commemorative t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, hoodies, ladies' tank tops and decals, with 100 percent of net proceeds from the sale to be donated to the Johnson family.

Sgt. Johnson and a colleague from the Tulsa P.D. were shot during a traffic stop during the early hours of Monday, June 29. The sergeant was providing back up to a colleague stopping a car driving with expired license tags. The driver was uncooperative, and after a struggle with the officers, he pulled out a handgun and began shooting.

The officers were struck multiple times and were rushed to a nearby hospital. Sgt. Johnson lost his life after undergoing emergency surgery to treat the gunshot wounds. Suspect David Anthony Ware, who initially fled from the scene, was later captured and charged with first-degree murder in the slaying. The other officer, Aurash Zarkeshan, remains in critical condition.

Sgt. Johnson. 45, had served with the Tulsa Police Department for 15 years. The department awarded him with a Purple Heart on Monday after the officer initially sustained his injuries. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

"At Shield Republic, we share a deep respect for this hero, who laid down his life providing backup to his brother in blue," said Charlie Romero, spokesperson for Shield Republic. "Our Hold the Line campaign for Sgt. Johnson remembers the incredible sacrifice of this brave first responder as we bring comfort and aid to his family."

View the Hold the Line fundraiser page for Sgt. Johnson at https://www.shieldrepublic.com/products/donation-hold-the....

Shield Republic's Hold the Line fundraisers have donated more than $350,000 this year to the families and units of fallen first responders, police officers and K9 police dogs.

About Shield Republic

Established in 2016, Shield Republic is an American lifestyle brand based outside Raleigh, North Carolina. The company offers creative, fresh apparel and merchandise embodying American pride. Everything sold by Shield Republic is designed and manufactured in the United States. Shield Republic appeals to patriotic Americans passionate about personal strength, second amendment rights and military strength. Through Shield Republic Charities, the company shows appreciation to soldiers, first responders and their families.