Jonathan Joss, 59, Beloved Voice Actor Behind John Redcorn on “King of the Hill,” Fatally Shot Outside Former San Antonio Home Following Long-Running Neighborhood Dispute
SAN ANTONIO, TX — Jonathan Joss, the 59-year-old actor and voice artist best known for portraying the iconic character John Redcorn on the long-running animated series King of the Hill, was tragically shot and killed on the evening of Sunday, June 1, 2025, in a quiet residential neighborhood in San Antonio, Texas. His untimely and violent death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and Native American communities across the country, where Joss was widely respected not only for his talent but also for his cultural advocacy and personal warmth.
The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. outside Joss’s former residence in a neighborhood where he had lived for many years and remained connected to even after moving. According to reports from the San Antonio Police Department, Joss was shot multiple times in front of the home and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical responders.
Details of the Shooting
Authorities swiftly responded to the call of shots fired in the area and, upon arrival, found Jonathan Joss lying unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was declared deceased at the scene.
The suspect, identified as 59-year-old Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, was apprehended by police just one block away as he attempted to flee on foot. Witnesses in the neighborhood pointed officers in the direction he ran, enabling a quick arrest. Alvarez was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Bexar County Jail. As of Monday morning, he remains held on a $200,000 bond and is facing homicide charges pending further investigation and review by the district attorney’s office.
Motive and History of Dispute
Preliminary findings from the San Antonio Police Department suggest that the shooting may have stemmed from a prolonged and escalating dispute between Joss and Alvarez. Though the exact nature of the conflict has not been publicly detailed, neighbors have reported that tensions between the two men had existed for years. Both were former neighbors, and despite Joss’s relocation from the residence, he reportedly maintained ties to the property—possibly for familial or maintenance reasons.
Eyewitness accounts and preliminary police interviews indicate that the encounter between Joss and Alvarez was not random but rather the result of a pre-existing animosity. One neighbor, who asked not to be named, stated, “We always knew there was bad blood between them. They had shouting matches in the past, but we never thought it would come to this.”
As part of the investigation, detectives are reviewing past complaints, restraining orders (if any exist), and any video surveillance from nearby homes to construct a clearer picture of the events leading up to the fatal shooting.
The Life and Legacy of Jonathan Joss
Jonathan Joss was not only a skilled voice actor but a trailblazer for Native American representation in mainstream media. Born in 1965, Joss was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache heritage and dedicated much of his career to portraying indigenous characters with depth and dignity. His most notable role was John Redcorn, the spiritual healer and musician in King of the Hill, a series that aired from 1997 to 2010 and remained a cultural touchstone through syndication and streaming.
Through his portrayal of Redcorn, Joss brought national attention to issues affecting Native American communities—albeit often through the lens of satire and animated comedy. His nuanced voice performance struck a chord with viewers and earned him recognition far beyond typical animated television circles.
In addition to King of the Hill, Joss also had roles in numerous television series and films, including Parks and Recreation, Walker, Texas Ranger, Comanche Moon, and the critically acclaimed film The Revenant. He was also involved in voice work for video games and various documentaries. Over the years, he became a symbol of pride for indigenous performers striving to find space in Hollywood.
An Advocate for Representation and Culture
Outside of his acting work, Jonathan Joss was deeply involved in Native American advocacy. He frequently spoke at schools, tribal events, and universities about representation in the media and the importance of cultural authenticity. He used his platform to highlight indigenous issues ranging from environmental protection to educational access.
Friends and colleagues described him as passionate, humble, and approachable. “Jonathan had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered,” said a former co-star. “He was more than a talented actor—he was a mentor, a friend, and someone who never forgot where he came from.”
Joss was also a gifted musician, blending Native American instrumentation with modern musical elements. He performed at powwows and festivals across North America and used music as a tool for storytelling and healing.
A Community in Mourning
News of Jonathan Joss’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow actors, and Native communities alike. Social media platforms have been flooded with remembrances, artwork, and quotes from his iconic character. Native leaders and organizations have released official statements mourning his loss and celebrating his contributions to cultural visibility and advocacy.
“Jonathan Joss gave voice not just to a character on TV, but to generations of Native people who rarely saw themselves portrayed with respect in mainstream media,” one tribute read.
In San Antonio, mourners gathered at a vigil held Monday evening near the site of the shooting. Candles, feathers, flowers, and photos were placed along the sidewalk where he was killed, creating a spontaneous memorial that reflected his spiritual and cultural significance.
“He was taken from us too soon, and in a senseless act of violence,” said one speaker at the vigil. “But his voice—his real voice—will echo for years through the work he did and the lives he touched.”
Investigation Continues
As of Tuesday, June 3, the San Antonio Police Department continues its investigation. Detectives are working with prosecutors to determine if additional charges, such as premeditation or firearm enhancements, will be added to the case against Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez.
Authorities have encouraged any witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward. Meanwhile, forensic teams are analyzing ballistics evidence and any potential surveillance footage from homes in the neighborhood to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Bexar County court records indicate that Alvarez has a limited criminal history, but investigators are digging into past interactions between the two men to assess whether prior incidents may indicate a pattern of threats or harassment.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
Jonathan Joss’s family has asked for privacy during this time but issued a brief statement thanking the public for their support and condolences. Plans for a public memorial are reportedly underway, with several friends and Native leaders indicating that services will likely take place both in San Antonio and on tribal lands connected to Joss’s heritage.
“It’s what he would have wanted,” a family member said. “To be honored not just as an entertainer, but as someone who believed in his culture and worked to lift others up.”
Fans are also organizing online fundraisers to support his family and to establish a scholarship fund in his name aimed at supporting Native American youth pursuing careers in the arts and media.
Final Reflections
The tragic death of Jonathan Joss is a devastating reminder of how quickly senseless violence can claim a life filled with meaning, purpose, and creativity. For nearly three decades, he gave a voice to characters and causes that helped shape a more inclusive narrative in American media. His legacy now belongs not only to the world of entertainment but to the communities he championed with such compassion and pride.
Jonathan Joss’s presence will be missed, but his impact will endure—in the words he spoke, the characters he embodied, and the people he inspired.
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