Tragedy at Sirens Pub: 24-Year-Old Employee Johnathan Brown Dies by Apparent Suicide in Port Townsend
PORT TOWNSEND, WA — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the small coastal town of Port Townsend following the death of a beloved young man, 24-year-old Johnathan Brown, who authorities say died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound inside Sirens Pub on the evening of Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
Sirens Pub, a well-known and cherished eatery nestled along Water Street with views overlooking the Puget Sound, became the center of a somber and deeply emotional scene as emergency responders were called to the restaurant shortly after 7:15 p.m. According to Port Townsend Police Chief Thomas Olson, officers and medics arrived to find Brown in the employee restroom with a fatal gunshot wound. Despite rapid response and life-saving efforts by paramedics on-site, Brown was pronounced dead at the scene.
The restaurant, which was bustling with midweek patrons at the time, was swiftly evacuated as authorities worked to secure the area and begin their preliminary investigation. The suddenness and public nature of the incident left customers and staff visibly shaken. Many stood in silence on the sidewalks outside the restaurant, holding each other in disbelief as word of the tragedy began to spread through the close-knit community.
Police Chief Olson confirmed that no foul play is suspected and that initial findings strongly indicate Brown’s death was a suicide. A firearm was recovered at the scene. Surveillance footage and witness accounts are being reviewed to confirm the timeline and circumstances surrounding the incident. An autopsy and toxicology report will be conducted by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office to provide further clarity.
“This is a devastating loss, not only for Johnathan’s family but for everyone who knew and worked with him,” Chief Olson said during a brief press conference Thursday morning. “He was a young man with deep roots in this community, and our hearts go out to his loved ones.”
Brown, a longtime resident of Jefferson County, had worked at Sirens Pub for nearly two years, where coworkers described him as a kind, hardworking, and deeply thoughtful individual. Friends say he had a passion for music and cooking, and he often brought laughter and warmth to the kitchen and front-of-house team alike.
“He was one of those rare souls who genuinely cared about others,” said Marcus Dillard, a friend and coworker. “You could see it in the way he treated people — guests, coworkers, even strangers. He had a gentle heart.”
According to those close to Brown, he had been quietly struggling with mental health challenges in recent months. Though he often kept his personal battles to himself, a few close friends noted that he had opened up sporadically about feeling overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted. Many now regret not realizing just how deeply he was hurting.
Mental health advocates in the area have urged the community to come together in support and compassion in the wake of the tragedy. “This heartbreaking event is a reminder that we need to be more vigilant and caring about the emotional well-being of those around us,” said Rachel McKenzie, Director of Peninsula Mental Health Alliance. “We must break the stigma that keeps people suffering in silence. Reaching out, checking in — these small actions can save lives.”
Sirens Pub remained closed on Thursday as staff and management reeled from the loss and began arranging grief counseling services for employees. In a statement released via social media, the restaurant’s management expressed profound sorrow and extended their condolences to Brown’s family:
“We are devastated by the loss of our dear friend and teammate, Johnathan Brown. His spirit, kindness, and warmth touched us all. We will miss him deeply. We ask for the community’s patience and understanding as we take time to grieve and support one another during this painful time.”
A candlelight vigil is scheduled to take place on Friday evening at Pope Marine Park, just a few blocks from Sirens Pub, where friends, coworkers, and community members are invited to gather in memory of Brown. Organizers say the vigil will be a time for reflection, remembrance, and raising awareness around mental health and suicide prevention.
As the Port Townsend community mourns this tragic loss, many are left asking how such a promising young life could end so abruptly — and what more can be done to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available.
In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a free and confidential 24/7 support service. You’re not alone. There is hope, and there is help.