Statement on death of Officer Joseph (Joe) Johnson from Senator Lynn Findley and Representative Mark Owens
By Mindy Gould on Tuesday, April 18th, 2023 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
SALEM, Ore (Press Release by Senator Lynn Findley and Representative Mark Owens– Senator Lynn Findley (R-Vale) and Representative Mark Owens (R-Crane) released the following statement regarding the death of Nyssa Police Department Reserve Officer Joseph Johnson:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Officer Joseph Johnson who was
killed in the line of duty protecting the citizens of Nyssa. On the night of April 15, 2023,
Officer Johnson was dispatched to investigate violent activity occurring in the Nyssa
community. A pursuit ensued followed by an exchange of gunfire. Officer Johnson was
struck and died at the scene.
Officer Johnson epitomized the spirit and service valued in eastern Oregon. Not only had
Officer Johnson served as Reserve Officer for the City of Nyssa since 2018, but he
dedicated his professional career to his community and to public safety by serving first
as a Corrections Officer and then as a Behavioral Health Specialist with Snake River
Correctional Institution in Ontario.
Amazingly, Officer Johnson’s service to his community did not end there as he was also
a mental health counselor, an Adjunct Instructor at Treasure Valley Community College,
and a volunteer firefighter. When we talk of taking action to better your community, we
should look no further than to the legacy of Officer Joseph Johnson.
More importantly, we express our deepest sympathies to Officer Johnson’s family,
including his wife and two children, his friends, co-workers, and the Malheur County
community as they mourn his loss.
The Malheur County community is lessened by the loss of a dedicated and hard-working
public servant, Officer Johnson died a hero and his selfless sacrifice while protecting the
community he served and loved should, and will, always be remembered.
Officer Johnson was the very best of eastern Oregon. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers
are with his family and friends.”
Flags have been ordered to be flown at half-staff until sunset April 17 in honor and
remeberance of Officer Johnson. The Fallen Bridge Foundation is accepting donations on
behalf of the family.
