Carl Johnson departed from San Andreas in 1987 primarily due to the profound emotional aftermath and accusations following the death of his younger brother, Brian.
The Catalyst for Departure
Carl's decision to leave his home in Los Santos, San Andreas, and move to Liberty City was directly triggered by a tragic family event and the subsequent blame placed upon him:
- The Death of Brian: In 1987, the Johnson family was shaken by the untimely death of Carl's younger brother, Brian. The circumstances surrounding Brian's demise were a significant source of grief and tension within the family.
- Sweet's Accusations: Carl's older brother, Sean "Sweet" Johnson, held Carl directly responsible for Brian's death. Sweet frequently lamented that Carl "let Brian die" and failed to call for help during the critical moments of the incident. This blame created a deep rift between the brothers and a heavy burden of guilt for Carl.
- Seeking Escape: Overwhelmed by the accusations, the lingering guilt, and the intense grief associated with Brian's death, Carl chose to leave San Andreas. His departure to Liberty City was an attempt to escape the painful memories and the strained family dynamics that had become unbearable.
Carl's absence from San Andreas lasted five years, until he returned in 1992 following the death of his mother, Beverly Johnson, setting the stage for the events of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
