Entertainment

San Antonio Police Revise Statement on Jonathan Joss' Murder: Investigation Into Possible Hate Crime Intensifies

2025-06-05

Author: Jessica Wong

Confusion Surrounds Jonathan Joss' Tragic Death

The shocking murder of Jonathan Joss, renowned for his role in the animated series *King of the Hill*, has taken a perplexing turn as the San Antonio Police Department retracted their earlier claims dismissing the possibility of homophobic motivations behind the crime.

Police Chief Admits Mistake

In a recent press conference, Police Chief Bill McManus acknowledged that their preliminary statement—asserting there was 'no evidence' of a hate crime—was "way, way, way premature." This correction comes after Joss’ husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, shed light on the disturbing harassment the couple had faced leading up to the shooting.

The Harassment and Violence Unveiled

Kern de Gonzales revealed the severe harassment they endured, stating it stemmed from "openly homophobic" threats from neighbors. Tragically, Joss was shot and killed outside their San Antonio residence, prompting the police to book a suspect, 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, for murder.

A Community in Fear

McManus expressed empathy for the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing that the loss of Jonathan Joss resonates deeply among its members. "We understand that many in the LGBTQ+ community are feeling anxious and concerned... We shouldn’t have issued that statement," he admitted.

Ongoing Investigation and Past Threats

The investigation into Joss' murder is still underway, with police taking the hate crime allegations very seriously. In Texas, while hate crime charges are not separate, prosecutors can enhance penalties based on biases against protected classes.

The police are also examining approximately 70 calls made over the past two years regarding disturbances related to Joss and his neighbors. These events included threats that ultimately led to their home being burned down.

A Life Cut Short and a Career Remembered

Jonathan Joss, a proud San Antonio native, had a diverse acting career that spanned decades. Known for his work not just in *King of the Hill*, where he voiced the character John Redcorn for 34 episodes, Joss lent his voice to numerous video games and had appearances in many celebrated TV series, including *Friday Night Lights*, *Parks & Recreation*, and *Ray Donovan*.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

As the San Antonio Police Department collaborates with the fire department to investigate the earlier fire at Joss' home, community members and advocates are watching closely, demanding accountability and justice for the beloved actor whose life was tragically cut short.