Warren man pleads guilty in shooting of former Youngstown firefighter

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Steffin Gantt

YOUNGSTOWN — The man who shot a former city firefighter in the firefighter’s East Side residence last fall has pleaded guilty to felonious assault with a gun specification and to illegal gun possession.

In a plea agreement, Ross Smith, an assistant Mahoning County prosecutor, today agreed to drop an aggravated robbery charge against Stefin Gantt, 20, of Warren, and to recommend a six-year prison term for him.

Gantt shot off-duty firefighter Andre Johnson, 26, in the face, stomach and leg on Nov. 14 in Johnson’s North Fruit Street residence. Police said they believe Gantt was at Johnson’s house to buy drugs.

During the struggle in Johnson’s basement, Gantt’s right ear was likely bitten or cut off, and he suffered a gunshot wound to his left forearm, police said.

For the complete story, see Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.