Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Actor Jonathan Joss
Jonathan Joss, a beloved American actor recognized for voicing the character John Redcorn on the animated series King of the Hill, was fatally shot in San Antonio, Texas. The shocking incident, which transpired on June 3, 2025, has raised questions about potential motives, as Joss’s husband alleged it was a homophobic hate crime, a claim police have stated lacks substantial evidence.
Details of the Shooting
The 59-year-old actor was reportedly shot while visiting the site of their previous home, which was destroyed by fire earlier this year. Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Joss’s husband, recounted a disturbing encounter where a man approached them, unleashed a barrage of violent homophobic slurs, and then opened fire. Kern de Gonzales was emotionally distraught after discovering a decayed dog skull and harness at the site, an event that triggered a painful reaction from both men.
“We were grieving. We were standing side by side,” Kern de Gonzales explained, recounting how Joss heroically pushed him to safety before being struck. “Jonathan gave me more love in our time together than most people ever get. I was with him when he passed. I told him how much he was loved.”
Police Investigation
According to law enforcement officials, reports claiming the shooting was a hate crime are being taken seriously, yet there is currently no evidence supporting the notion that Joss’s murder stemmed from his sexual orientation. A suspect, identified as Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, has been apprehended on suspicion of murder, and the police have promised a thorough examination of all elements surrounding the incident.
Community Reactions
The tragic news has sparked an outpouring of grief from Joss’s friends and colleagues. Nick Offerman, who starred alongside Joss in Parks and Recreation, expressed heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the deep sense of loss within the cast. “Jonathan was such a sweet guy. A terrible tragedy,” Offerman said.
Additionally, the creators of King of the Hill, Mike Judge, Greg Daniels, and Saladin Patterson, released a statement honoring Joss’s contributions, noting that his portrayal of John Redcorn brought joy to viewers for over a dozen seasons.
Legacy and Recent Appearances
Prior to his untimely death, Joss was involved in the revival of King of the Hill, which is set to premiere on Hulu on August 4, 2025. Notably, he had attended a panel related to the show just days before his death, clearly expressing his passion for a series that was a significant part of his life.
His words on social media illustrated his connection to the character and show that contributed largely to his career. “That character, that voice, that story… they were my home, my pride,” he previously stated in a heartfelt post.
Summary of Incident
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Jonathan Joss (59 years old) |
| Incident Date | June 3, 2025 |
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Suspect | Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja |
| Character Voiced | John Redcorn |
As the investigation continues and the community mourns, Jonathan Joss leaves behind a legacy cherished by many, both on and off the screen.
