Yes, this is a tragic event, Bob getting killed and he didn’t deserve that. But Johnny killed him in self defense to save Ponyboy. Then he ran because he was scared, he has an abusive home life and has never run into the law so Johnny deserves a light punishment. To begin, Johnny killed Bob in self defense. So that Ponyboy wasn’t killed by Bob, moreover the group of about five, almost grown adults, have jumped Johnny in the past and they beat him within an inch of his life. Johnny didn't want what happened to him to happen to Ponyboy, or worse. Johnny’s fight or flight kicked in and he stabbed Bob, but he never intended to harm anyone. Furthermore, Johnny has had a rough home life. Getting beat by parents who don't care if he is home or sleeping
