Jonathan Joss’s neighbor has been formally accused of the actor’s murder. Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez was indicted by a grand jury on Monday, November 17, facing one count of murder.
Joss, known for his roles as John Redcorn in “King of the Hill” and Ken in “Parks and Recreation,” died at 59 in June. The incident occurred after a reported altercation with Ceja Alvarez in San Antonio, Texas.
Authorities found Joss near the road after a shooting. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite resuscitation efforts. Ceja Alvarez was detained after attempting to flee in a vehicle.
Ceja Alvarez, 57, was initially arrested in June on a first-degree murder charge. He posted a $200,000 bail and was subsequently released.
Following Joss’s death, his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, publicly stated the incident was a hate crime. He shared a statement on Facebook in June detailing the events.
Kern de Gonzales claimed he and Joss were victims of “openly homophobic” harassment. Their former home had reportedly burned down after more than two years of threats from locals. These threats were reported to authorities multiple times, but no action was taken.
He recounted visiting their old property, where he found the skull and harness of one of their dogs, causing severe emotional distress. As they grieved, a man approached, yelling “violent homophobic insults.”
Kern de Gonzales stated that neither he nor Joss were armed or threatening. He said Joss pushed him away as the man fired, saving his life.
Police Chief William P. McManus addressed the hate crime allegations in June. He clarified that in Texas, hate crimes are not prosecuted as separate charges.
Instead, hate crime designations are considered sentencing enhancements. Police gather facts and submit them to the district attorney’s office, where such determinations are made during sentencing.
The police chief emphasized that law enforcement agencies do not file hate crime charges directly.
Kern de Gonzales paid tribute to Joss, highlighting his deep appreciation for fans and friends. He vowed to protect Joss’s legacy and the life they built together.