02 October 2023 , 17:38
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A journalist known to report extensively on local issues was shot and killed overnight in his home by an unknown gunman, and authorities have made no arrests.
Philadelphia Journalist Josh Kruger, 39, was found outside his Point Breeze home by police with multiple gunshot wounds after they had responded to calls of screaming followed by gunshots shortly before 1.30 am on the 2300 block of Watkins Street. Josh was rushed to Presbyterian Medical Center to no avail; he was pronounced dead just before 2.15 pm.
According to detectives, an armed assailant found their way into Josh's home and shot him at the base of the stairs and then fled. A bleeding Josh ran outside to seek help from his neighbors before passing out. After investigating the crime scene, they found no signs of forced entry.
Two weeks earlier, Josh said a mysterious individual came into his home and threatened him (Instagram)Authorities said the motive is unclear at this time and no arrests have been made. Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore said: “Either the door was open, or the offender knew how to get the door open. We just don’t know yet," the Inquirer reported.
About two weeks ago, in an eerie Facebook post, Josh described how someone came into his house in search of their boyfriend. "A man I've never seen in my life," he wrote. The man called himself “Lady Diabla, the She-Devil of the Streets," according to the post. Josh said the mysterious individual threatened him.
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In August, Josh made an Instagram post describing what he called a "targeted attack" after a "heavy glass egg" was sent flying through his apartment window, causing $400 (£328) worth of damage.
In August, Josh said someone threw a "heavy glass egg" through his apartment window (joshkrugerphl/Instagram)He was a very prolific journalist. The Philadelphian wrote articles about the LGBTQ community, city and state politics among other vital issues. His byline appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Citizen, LGBTQ Nation and Billy Penn.
In his bio posted on his website, he explains how he "used his unique combined experiences with homelessness, addiction, HIV, poverty and trauma" to give readers an unrivaled insight into the news. He won multiple awards for his commentary and sports reporting, including an award from the Society of Professional Journalists.
Josh was also very active member of his community. As a former spokesperson for the City of Philadelphia, he was an outspoken public advocate for the city's most vulnerable groups, including the homeless, those struggling with addiction and the LGBTQ community.
He worked for the city for five years, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. He oversaw the mayor's social media, policy campaigns and acted as a spokesperson for the local Office of Homelessness.
The outspoken journalist/community advocate loved to ride his bike and to spend time with his "best friend," Mason the elderly one-toothed cat.