Life sentence for Gunter’s 2017 murder

**Justice Served: Anthony Ray Johnson Sentenced to Life for 2017 New Caney Murder of Steven “Bear” Gunter**

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – After a nearly seven-year wait, justice has been served in the brutal 2017 murder of Steven “Bear” Gunter. Anthony Ray Johnson, 46, was convicted by a Montgomery County jury on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, for Gunter’s murder and subsequently received a life sentence the following day.

Gunter’s body was discovered on July 26, 2017, in a remote wooded area of New Caney, specifically near East Martin Drive and Pecan Drive, by a group of four-wheelers. Authorities quickly confirmed the gruesome details: Gunter had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and his body was partially burned, indicating a deliberate attempt to conceal the crime.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Homicide/Violent Crimes Detectives swiftly launched an investigation, identifying Johnson as a suspect early on due to his known association with Gunter. The trail, however, proved to be a lengthy one, culminating in this week’s trial.

Prosecutors in the 221st District Court, presided over by Judge Lisa Michalk, laid out a compelling case against Johnson. Evidence presented during the trial, which began Monday, June 10, 2024, demonstrated that Johnson was seen with Gunter shortly before the murder. Crucially, after the slaying, Johnson took Gunter’s vehicle and used his credit card, attempting to sell the car for a mere $300 before fleeing the state of Texas. Johnson later returned to Texas and was apprehended in Montgomery County. During interviews with investigators, Johnson provided a series of inconsistent statements, which became a significant factor in the prosecution’s argument.

The six-man, six-woman jury deliberated for a mere two hours on June 12 before finding Johnson guilty of murder. The sentencing phase commenced on Thursday, June 13, where the court ultimately handed down a life sentence for Johnson.

“This conviction and life sentence bring much-needed closure to the victim’s family after years of waiting,” said Assistant District Attorney Brittany A. Cline, who prosecuted the case alongside Major Crimes Chief Adam J. McLain. “The dedication of our detectives and prosecutors ensured that Anthony Ray Johnson was held accountable for this horrific crime.”

Steven C. Cochran and Chris Allen represented Johnson during the proceedings.

For background on the initial discovery and investigation, readers can refer to previous news coverage:
* Click2Houston: Body Found in New Caney Woods Identified as Steven Gunter
* ABC13 Eyewitness News: Montgomery County Sheriff Investigates New Caney Homicide