In the early morning hours of October 2, 2022, the life of 38-year-old Justin J. Rose, a Black / African American male from Junction City, Kansas, was tragically cut short. At approximately 2:00 a.m., Junction City Police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington following reports of gunshots. Upon their arrival, officers discovered Rose suffering from a gunshot wound.
He was quickly transported to Geary Community Hospital, but tragically, he was pronounced deceased.
The investigation into the shooting swiftly identified a primary suspect, 34-year-old Joshua Sturgis, a resident of Junction City. Later that same day, at around 6:00 p.m., authorities located Sturgis in St. Charles County, Missouri. The Missouri Highway Patrol initiated a traffic stop and detained him. Detectives from the Junction City Police Department traveled to Missouri and arrested Sturgis in connection with Rose's death.
Sturgis was held in Missouri on a $1,000,000 bond before being extradited back to Geary County, Kansas. He faces charges of second-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault.
Known by the nickname "Boss," Justin J. Rose was born on January 23, 1984. He was a father to four daughters. His death was mourned by his parents, two brothers, and a host of other family members and friends. A funeral service was held on October 10, 2022, at the New Church of the Living God in Junction City.
