Joseph Charles Johns, a 40-year-old firefighter from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, tragically lost his life on May 5, 2024, in a shooting incident in Minneapolis. Johns, who served as a firefighter for both the Eden Prairie and Eagan Fire Departments, was off-duty when the incident occurred.
The fatal shooting took place in a parking lot behind the former Whiskey Junction bar in the 900 block of Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis.
Johns sustained fatal injuries during what has been described as a gun battle in the early hours of Sunday morning. The incident shocked the community and left his colleagues, friends, and family devastated.
Johns had a distinguished career in firefighting, having joined the Eden Prairie Fire Department in 2015 and later becoming a full-time firefighter with the Eagan Fire Department in 2020. He was known for his kindness, compassion, and dedication to his profession. Colleagues described him as the ultimate 'Good Guy' who always put service above self.
Beyond his professional life, Johns was an avid motorcyclist and a member of the Tru Breed motorcycle club. He had ridden through every state in the Continental US and parts of Ireland, earning the nickname 'Miles' for his love of long rides.
The investigation into Johns' death led to the arrest of Marquise Trevone Hammonds-Ford, a 29-year-old man from Monticello. Hammonds-Ford pleaded guilty to illegal gun possession in connection with the shooting. The plea agreement calls for a 6½-year sentence, with the expectation of serving the first four years in prison and the remainder on supervised release.
Joseph Johns' untimely death has left a profound impact on the firefighting community and beyond. He is remembered not only for his professional dedication but also for his vibrant personality, his love for adventure, and his ability to positively influence those around him. His loss is deeply felt by his family, colleagues, and the many lives he touched throughout his career and personal life.
