A shocking incident at a family festival in Idaho has ended with a 32-year-old DoorDash driver facing a first-degree murder charge after allegedly shooting a man in front of thousands of people, including the victim’s wife.
What started as a delivery of baby formula quickly turned into a deadly confrontation during the popular Night Lights Sky Lantern Festival. Authorities say impatience, reckless driving, and a heated argument led to a tragic death that has left an entire community in shock.
DoorDash Driver Arrested in Idaho Festival Shooting
32-year-old Edsel Robert Johnson has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Bradley Allen Rex in Post Falls, Idaho.
According to court records, Johnson is facing multiple charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Reckless driving
- Battery
Police took Johnson into custody shortly after the incident, which happened around 7 p.m. on Saturday during the Night Lights Sky Lantern Festival at Stateline Speedway.
Thousands of people had gathered for the event when the deadly confrontation unfolded.
What Happened at the Lantern Festival?
According to investigators, Johnson was driving a silver van while making a DoorDash delivery of baby formula.
Witnesses told police that Johnson appeared frustrated by heavy pedestrian traffic and was seen:
- Driving the wrong way on Beck Road
- Honking continuously at pedestrians
- Speeding through a crowded area
- Forcing people to move out of his path
Most people reportedly moved out of the way, but Bradley Rex refused.
Authorities believe Rex was trying to protect nearby families and festival visitors from the reckless driver.
Victim Tried to Stop the Dangerous Driving
According to witnesses and Rex’s wife, Bradley Rex stood his ground as the van approached.
As Johnson’s van passed along the shoulder, Rex allegedly swung a folding chair at the side of the vehicle.
This appears to have triggered the violent confrontation.
Investigators say Johnson suddenly stopped his van and got out.
Physical Fight Escalated Quickly
Witnesses told detectives that Johnson allegedly attacked Rex immediately after exiting the vehicle.
Several people reported seeing Johnson:
| Witness Claims | Details |
|---|---|
| Punching | Johnson allegedly struck Rex multiple times |
| Throwing | Rex was reportedly thrown to the ground |
| Body slam | One witness said Rex was slammed into a ditch |
After the physical fight, Johnson reportedly returned to his driver’s seat.
Fatal Shot Captured on Video
Investigators say the most critical evidence in the case is witness video footage.
According to police, the footage shows:
- Rex approaching Johnson’s van
- The driver’s door beginning to close
- Johnson’s hand extending from the window holding a black object
- A single gunshot being fired
- Rex collapsing moments later
Witnesses confirmed that Rex was unarmed during the shooting.
The shooting reportedly happened in front of thousands of festival attendees, including the victim’s wife.
Johnson Called 911 After the Shooting
According to investigators, Johnson called 911 himself after the shooting.
He reportedly told dispatchers that the victim had hit his vehicle.
Johnson allegedly said:
“I didn’t want to shoot him but had stuff to do.”
This statement became an important part of the investigation.
Suspect Admitted He “Messed Up”
Police reports state that while officers detained Johnson, he made several emotional statements.
According to detectives, Johnson reportedly admitted:
- “I messed up.”
- “This should not have happened.”
- “I reacted. Bad.”
- “I have no idea why I did that.”
During questioning, Johnson allegedly admitted his impatience played a major role in the deadly encounter.
He reportedly told detectives:
“Why didn’t he just get out of my way?”
He also allegedly said:
“Dude is dead over nothing.”
Judge Calls the Shooting a Fatal Decision
During Johnson’s court appearance on Monday, the judge strongly criticized his actions.
The judge reportedly said Johnson made an “extremely fatal and critical decision” that cost a man his life and devastated an entire family.
The victim’s family has now lost:
- A husband
- A father
- A brother
- A loved member of their community
Current Legal Status
Johnson is currently being held in Kootenai County Jail without bond.
Authorities have not yet confirmed his next court appearance.
If convicted of first-degree murder, Johnson could face life in prison.
