CAPE CORAL, FL – A 28-year-old man is accused of fatally stabbing his mother in her Cape Coral home after police say months of escalating violence and threats. Devin Johnson was taken into custody in Collier County after fleeing the scene, authorities said.

Rosemary Johnson, 69, was found dead in her residence on Tuesday. Cape Coral police reported that family members discovered bloody footprints inside the home after being unable to reach her. Officers arrived to find her with multiple stab wounds to her head and neck.

Court records reveal that Rosemary Johnson had sought protection from her son earlier this year, following a series of violent encounters. In January and again in March, she documented instances of physical assault, including an incident where she sustained injuries after being struck on the head. According to her handwritten petition for an injunction, Rosemary indicated she no longer felt safe living with her son due to his unpredictable behavior.

One of the more alarming prior incidents occurred when Devin Johnson allegedly shut off the power to his mother’s home, trapping her in an electric recliner. Police records state that he removed her walker and phone, then left with her vehicle and other personal items. Rosemary eventually managed to get help from a neighbor after freeing herself.

The court filing detailed her concerns regarding her son’s mental health. Devin Johnson had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and was reportedly not compliant with his prescribed medication at the time. His mother noted in the petition that he did not have a job or regular income and relied on her for shelter. At one point, authorities listed him as a missing endangered person due to his mental health and reported behavior.

After Rosemary Johnson was found dead, police launched a manhunt for her son. Devin Johnson was located in Collier County, where deputies attempted a traffic stop. He allegedly tried to escape on foot, leading to a brief pursuit. During his arrest, officers observed a significant amount of blood on his clothing and inside his vehicle.

Authorities say Johnson resisted arrest, striking a law enforcement K9 multiple times and attempting to grab an officer’s firearm during the altercation. He was eventually restrained and taken into custody. No officers were seriously injured.

Family members told investigators that Devin Johnson had ongoing issues with substance abuse and a history of domestic violence. Records suggest that these problems, coupled with mental health struggles, contributed to the volatile environment in the home.

Devin Johnson is being held in the Collier County jail on a charge of second-degree murder while he awaits his initial court hearing. Cape Coral police continue to investigate the motive behind the attack on Rosemary Johnson.

Officials emphasized that their focus remains on supporting the victim’s family and seeking justice. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are reviewing the history of reported incidents and protective orders that preceded the fatal stabbing.