Jonathan Joss, a 59-year-old actor known for his role in Parks and Recreation, was tragically shot and killed near his San Antonio home on Sunday. According to a police report, the suspect, Sigfredo Ceja, confessed to the police, stating, “I shot him.” Joss was reportedly at a former residence, which had been destroyed by fire earlier this year, to check his mail when the confrontation occurred.
A witness, who has not been named, described how she drove Joss to the site. After arriving, Ceja allegedly confronted Joss, claiming he had a gun, which police identified as a rifle. Ceja has since been arrested on suspicion of murder, and the investigation is ongoing.
Previous records indicate multiple calls to authorities concerning disturbances involving Joss and Ceja, who lived nearby. Allegations suggest a history of conflict, including numerous welfare checks and complaints of neighbourly disputes.
Emergency services responded to reports of a shooting and found Joss "near the roadway” where they attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Joss’s husband, reported that they were threatened by Ceja while at the property, which had suffered a fire earlier this year that resulted in the loss of their three dogs.
De Gonzales described the horrifying moments of the shooting, where Joss pushed him out of harm’s way, effectively saving his life. He noted that the shooting followed a tirade of homophobic slurs directed at them, suggesting underlying motives tied to their sexual orientation. However, law enforcement has stated that, while there are claims regarding the incident being a hate crime, no evidence currently supports this theory.
Joss received recognition as the voice of John Redcorn in King of the Hill and as a prominent character on Parks and Recreation. Fellow cast member Nick Offerman expressed his sorrow over Joss’s death, citing the impact he had on the show and the grief felt among the cast.
The community mourns the loss of Jonathan Joss, remembering him not only for his roles on-screen but as a beloved figure who enjoyed being part of the entertainment industry. As authorities continue their investigation, the case remains a stark reminder of the issues surrounding violence and hate in society.