Jonathan Joss Gonzales, Acclaimed Voice Actor Behind ‘King of the Hill’s’ John Redcorn, Fatally Shot in San Antonio Following Heated Confrontation Outside Fire-Damaged Home
SAN ANTONIO, TX — Jonathan Joss Gonzales, the celebrated Native American actor best known for voicing the character John Redcorn on the long-running animated series King of the Hill, was fatally shot on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in a tragic and violent altercation that has stunned fans across the nation and devastated the local San Antonio community. He was 59 years old.
Gonzales, also widely recognized for his recurring role as Chief Ken Hotate on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, was reportedly visiting his former home on Dorsey Drive with his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, when the fatal shooting occurred. The home, which had been destroyed in a fire earlier this year, was the site of an emotional return for the couple—one that ended in senseless violence and irreparable loss.
Timeline of Events: From Grief to Tragedy
According to police and witness accounts, the fatal incident occurred shortly after 4:00 p.m. Sunday afternoon. Gonzales and his husband had returned to the property, which had been condemned and fenced off following the January fire, to collect mail and salvage personal effects. During their visit, the couple reportedly discovered what appeared to be the remains of one of their beloved dogs who had gone missing during the blaze.
The distressing discovery visibly shook both men. Witnesses described hearing sobs and raised voices, not in anger, but in anguish. Neighbors say the couple had rarely returned to the site since the fire, and the emotional weight of the moment was palpable.
It was during this vulnerable time that a neighbor—later identified by authorities as 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja—approached the couple. According to a statement from the San Antonio Police Department, Ceja allegedly initiated a verbal confrontation that quickly escalated. Witnesses claim Ceja hurled homophobic slurs at the grieving couple, provoking a heated exchange. The argument reportedly intensified before Ceja retrieved a firearm and opened fire on Gonzales.
Emergency services were called to the scene, and Gonzales was rushed to University Hospital in San Antonio. Despite resuscitative efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival due to multiple gunshot wounds. His husband was physically unharmed but was treated at the scene for shock and emotional distress.
Ceja was arrested shortly after the shooting and remains in custody on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and a possible hate crime enhancement pending a full investigation by local and federal authorities.
Remembering Jonathan Joss Gonzales
Jonathan Joss Gonzales was more than an actor. He was a cultural figure, a storyteller, and a voice that resonated far beyond his television characters. Of Comanche and Apache descent, Gonzales broke ground for Indigenous representation in American media, often portraying characters that reflected both his heritage and the complex realities of Native identity in contemporary America.
He rose to prominence in 1997 when he joined the cast of King of the Hill, voicing John Redcorn, a spiritual healer with a dry wit and distinctive presence. His performance brought authenticity, depth, and dignity to a role that might otherwise have been caricatured. Gonzales would voice the character for nearly the entire duration of the show’s 13-season run.
He also starred in multiple episodes of Parks and Recreation as Chief Ken Hotate, a character that balanced humor with insight and challenged audiences to think critically about Native land, history, and representation—all while making them laugh.
In addition to his television work, Gonzales was a noted stage performer and independent filmmaker. He lent his talents to projects promoting Indigenous education, youth mentorship, and environmental activism. He was frequently involved in speaking engagements and workshops across the country, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Public Reaction and Tributes
News of Gonzales’s death sparked an immediate outpouring of grief and remembrance from fellow actors, fans, and activists. Mike Judge, creator of King of the Hill, issued a heartfelt statement late Sunday evening:
“Jonathan brought heart, humor, and truth to everything he touched. His portrayal of John Redcorn was iconic, but it was his spirit behind the scenes that made him unforgettable. He will be deeply missed.”
Parks and Recreation star Nick Offerman, who worked closely with Gonzales during his recurring appearances on the show, shared a tribute on social media:
“Jonathan was a force—fiercely talented, deeply grounded, and full of compassion. We’ve lost a giant, and the world is dimmer for it.”
Indigenous communities across North America also mourned the loss. The Native American Rights Fund issued a statement recognizing Gonzales’s impact:
“Jonathan Joss Gonzales used his platform not only to entertain but to elevate. He broke barriers for Indigenous performers and left an indelible mark on the landscape of American storytelling.”
Fans gathered outside the Dorsey Drive property Monday morning, placing flowers, candles, and photos of Gonzales in a makeshift memorial. One card read: “Thank you for giving voice to our stories. May you walk in beauty.”
A Family in Shock
Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Jonathan’s husband and creative partner, issued a brief but emotional statement through a family spokesperson:
“Jonathan was my husband, my soulmate, and my greatest inspiration. We were grieving the loss of our home and our pets—and now I am left grieving him. The cruelty of this act is beyond words. But I know Jonathan would want love, not hate, to carry us forward. I will honor him every day of my life.”
The couple had been married since 2016 and often collaborated on artistic projects and community events. Friends close to the family described them as “inseparable,” “deeply in love,” and “dedicated to making the world better, together.”
The Accused: Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja
The suspect, Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, is known to some residents in the area for confrontational behavior, though no formal complaints had been filed prior to the shooting. Neighbors described Ceja as “volatile,” with one individual noting, “He always seemed like he was on edge, especially when it came to Jonathan and Tristan. It was like he couldn’t stand to see them happy.”
Investigators are now delving into Ceja’s history to determine whether the shooting was premeditated or part of a pattern of discriminatory behavior. Federal authorities, including the FBI’s Civil Rights Division, have reportedly been notified and may take jurisdiction if the evidence supports prosecution under federal hate crime statutes.
San Antonio Police Chief Marisol Reyes addressed the media Monday afternoon:
“This was a senseless, brutal act. No one should ever be targeted for who they are or who they love. We are working closely with our partners to ensure full accountability in this case.”
Broader Implications: Violence, Hate, and Grief
The tragic death of Jonathan Joss Gonzales has reignited national conversations about the intersection of gun violence, hate crimes, and LGBTQ+ safety—especially for people of color. Advocates have called for stronger hate crime legislation in Texas, increased public education on bias-based violence, and greater protections for at-risk communities.
Gwendolyn Two Feathers, a Native LGBTQ+ activist based in Austin, said the murder should be “a wake-up call.”
“We are not separate issues. Native rights, queer rights, gun violence prevention—it’s all connected. Jonathan’s death is a devastating reminder that we have so far to go.”
The Human Rights Campaign also issued a statement acknowledging Gonzales’s role as a visible LGBTQ+ Indigenous figure, noting that 2025 has already seen a troubling rise in violence against queer individuals in the U.S.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Plans are underway for a public memorial service, which will likely be held in both San Antonio and Los Angeles, where Gonzales spent much of his professional career. His family has requested privacy for the time being but expressed gratitude for the global outpouring of love.
The Gonzales family is reportedly working with Native spiritual leaders to conduct a traditional ceremony in addition to formal services. A foundation may also be established in his name to support Indigenous youth in the arts.
More details are expected to be released in the coming days.
Legacy of a Trailblazer
Jonathan Joss Gonzales’s voice brought laughter and depth to millions of households. His presence on screen was powerful not just because of his talent, but because of the truth he carried in every role. He challenged stereotypes, uplifted Native voices, and showed that humor, advocacy, and representation could coexist.
Though his life was cut short by violence, the legacy he leaves behind is one of strength, visibility, and profound impact. From his unforgettable portrayal of John Redcorn to his real-world activism, Gonzales will be remembered as a pioneer—one who refused to be silent and whose voice will echo for generations to come.
Leave a Reply