A Philadelphia journalist, Josh Kruger, was shot seven times and killed at home. Kruger had worked as the Office of Homeless Services’ communications director.
At 1:30 a.m.Tuesday, an assailant entered the home of Josh Kruger. The assailant shot from the base of the stairs, sending seven shots into Kruger.
Kruger’s neighbor heard the gunshots and called emergency services. Kruger was rushed to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center and died of his injuries approximately an hour later.
Police labeled the incident as a domestic dispute and drug-related issue. Police stated they found methamphetamine in Kruger’s bedroom and text messages between Kruger and a former partner.
Kruger worked for multiple publications and was Mayor Jim Kenney’s social media manager. Kenney had the following to say regarding Kruger.
“[Kruger] cared deeply about our city and its residents, evident in his public service and writing. Our administration was fortunate to call him a colleague, and our prayers are with everyone who knew him.”
Kendell Stephens, a neighbor and friend to Kruger, spoke of Kruger’s past and how he had overcome addiction and homelessness. Kruger also rose to become a respected journalist and city worker.
“He was more than just a journalist. He was more than just a community member. He was somebody that fought that great fight so many of us are not able to fight that fight because we’re too busy sheltered in our own homes wondering if someone is going to knock down our doors and kill us the same way they killed him. The same way they tried to kill me. And we’re tired of it.”
Kruger was known as a champion for homeless citizens of the city. Friends and co-workers said he worked to help all of the homeless citizens he could. He worked as a mentor to help them overcome their issues, especially addiction.
Stephens also discussed how Kruger had been there for her after her assault in 2020. She stated Kruger was the first one there for her despite her being transgender. Both Stephens and Kruger were active in the LGBT community and activism.
There have been no arrests in the case.
