PORT TOWNSEND, WA — A heartbreaking scene unfolded Wednesday evening, July 2, 2025, at the popular downtown eatery Sirens Pub, where a young employee, 24-year-old Johnathan Brown, died from what authorities are calling an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to Port Townsend Police Chief Thomas Olson, Brown sustained the gunshot wound in the employee bathroom of the restaurant, sparking an emergency response just after 9:00 p.m. from law enforcement and medical personnel. The incident was not witnessed by customers, and Sirens Pub staff and patrons were quickly and calmly escorted out of the establishment via a back staircase leading to Water Street.

Emergency services were dispatched by JeffCom, and East Jefferson Fire Rescue (EJFR) crews, led by Chief Bret Black, responded within minutes. Upon arrival, officers from the Port Townsend Police Department had already begun initial wound care and had upgraded the situation to “CPR in Progress.” Additional EMS units from Jacob Miller Station, Chimacum Fire Station, and the Battalion Chief were deployed immediately.

Medical Response and Transport Efforts

Paramedics from EJFR quickly took over care, initiating life support measures that initially resulted in the return of Brown’s pulse. With his condition stabilized just enough, preparations were made for a Medivac transfer to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, the region’s Level I trauma center.

Brown was en route to Jefferson International Airport for the transfer when he tragically lost his pulse a second time. Despite relentless efforts from both the ground crew and the flight medics, resuscitation efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, and Johnathan Brown was pronounced deceased before reaching the helicopter.

A Community in Shock

The news has sent shockwaves through the Port Townsend community, particularly among those who knew Johnathan Brown personally or frequented Sirens Pub, where he had worked and built connections with customers and coworkers alike.

“He was a kind soul, always smiling behind the bar,” one regular patron said. “It’s devastating to know he was struggling this deeply.”

While Police Chief Olson confirmed that “all indications are leading to a self-inflicted gunshot wound,” the investigation remains active and ongoing. No foul play is suspected at this time, and next of kin have been notified.

Respectful Handling of the Scene

Law enforcement and emergency responders took every measure to ensure the dignity of the victim and the privacy of those on-site. According to Chief Olson, customers were not exposed to the tragic scene, and the situation was handled with discretion and professionalism. Sirens Pub has not yet released a public statement, though it is expected to remain closed for at least several days out of respect for Brown and his family.

Mental Health Awareness

This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of mental health awareness, particularly among young adults and service industry workers, who often face silent struggles in high-pressure environments. Friends and community members are encouraging others to check in on one another and seek help when needed.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or thinking about suicide, please reach out:

National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
Available 24/7 for confidential support.

In Memory of Johnathan Brown

Though his life ended far too soon, Johnathan Brown will be remembered for the joy he brought to his workplace, the kindness he showed to friends and strangers alike, and the genuine spirit that made him a valued part of Port Townsend’s close-knit community. Tributes are already pouring in on social media, with many sharing memories of his humor, humility, and quiet strength.

Plans for a memorial service or community gathering to honor his life have not yet been announced.

Our thoughts are with Johnathan Brown’s family, friends, and colleagues at Sirens Pub as they grieve this devastating loss.