On April 18, 2024, Robert 'Bob' DeMars, a 50-year-old businessman from Elko, Nevada, tragically lost his life in a workplace shooting. The incident occurred at Sterling Crane, a business located on North 5th Street in Elko, where DeMars was found dead at approximately 7:44 a.m.
The shooter was identified as John Joshua Jauer, a 42-year-old employee who was in the process of being terminated from the company. After shooting DeMars, Jauer fled the scene.
Law enforcement responded quickly, and the Elko SWAT team was called to assist. The surrounding neighborhood was put on lockdown as authorities searched for the suspect.
Jauer was later located at the nearby Elko Peace Park. Upon the arrival of deputies, a gunshot was heard. The suspect was taken to Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, where he was pronounced dead. The incident was classified as a murder-suicide by the Elko Police Department.
Bob DeMars was a well-known and respected member of the Elko community. He and his wife were the owners of Evolution Power Sports and Sierra Java Coffee. DeMars' untimely death left a significant impact on the community, with many remembering him as a friend and valued business owner.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the bodies of both DeMars and Jauer were sent to Washoe County for examination. The Elko Police Department, led by Lt. Rick Moore, continued to gather information and evidence related to this tragic event.
The loss of Robert DeMars was deeply felt by the Elko community. He was remembered as a person who left behind a legacy 'beyond measure,' highlighting the positive impact he had on those around him during his life.
