Lawmaker statement on death of officer, Joseph Johnson

(photo courtesy of NYPD Twitter)
By Oregon State Senator Lynn Findley
and State Representative Mark Owens

Statement on death of Officer Joseph (Joe) Johnson from Senator Lynn Findley and Representative Mark Owens

SALEM, Ore – 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 remembrance of Officer Johnson. The Fallen Bridge Foundation is accepting donations on behalf of the family.