Philadelphia police have named a suspect in the tragic murder of journalist and activist Josh Kruger, who was fatally shot in his own home. The suspect, 19-year-old Robert Edmond Davis, is wanted for murder and related offenses and is currently at large, considered armed and dangerous. Standing at 5’5″ and weighing 160 lbs, Davis’s last known address is on the 1600 block of South Ringgold Street. Authorities urge anyone with information on Davis’s whereabouts to contact the police immediately by dialing 911.
Lt. Hamilton Marshmond of the Philadelphia Police Department revealed that Kruger and Davis were acquaintances, with Kruger attempting to assist Davis in life. Extensive text messages between the two were discovered, and drugs were found at Kruger’s residence. Investigators are still piecing together a possible motive for the crime, leaving many questions unanswered.
Kruger, a former city employee, freelance journalist, and LGBTQ+ advocate, was deeply involved in various causes, including addiction, homelessness, and HIV advocacy. His murder has sent shockwaves throughout the community he cared so much about. Mayor Jim Kenney described Kruger’s passion for the city, lamenting that “his light was dimmed much too soon.”
Kruger’s legacy will live on through his impactful writing on LGBTQ+ topics, substance use disorder, and homelessness. He was remembered at a moving memorial where friends and colleagues celebrated his unapologetic and bold approach to life.
In a statement, District Attorney Larry Krasner emphasized that Kruger deserved to write the ending of his own story. The investigation into this tragic incident continues, as the city mourns the loss of a dedicated advocate and journalist.