A tragic domestic dispute in Panama City, Fla., led to a murder-suicide on Friday, Dec. 13, leaving one woman critically injured and her husband dead. Police said 67-year-old Newell Mock shot and killed his son-in-law, Joshua Johns, and severely wounded his daughter, Jessica Johns, after an argument with his wife, Rhonda Mock, 65.
The incident unfolded after Rhonda fled their home following the altercation, prompting Mock to travel to the home of his daughter, Jessica. Once inside, Mock immediately opened fire on the couple, hitting both of them multiple times.
Responding officers arrived just 2.5 minutes later to find Mock on the front porch, still armed with a handgun. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, Mock fatally shot himself as officers attempted to engage. No shots were fired by police during the standoff.
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Inside the home, officers found Joshua deceased and Jessica critically wounded. She was rushed to a hospital and is currently recovering from serious injuries, as noted by her sister, Molly Vise, in a GoFundMe campaign. Vise described the devastation caused by Joshua’s death, remembering him as a “loving husband, father, and friend,” and emphasizing the emotional and physical challenges Jessica will face during her recovery, including raising their children without their father.
Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith indicated that Mock’s anger was primarily directed at his wife, but when he couldn’t take it out on her, he chose to harm her family. The case remains under investigation.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or text “STRENGTH” to 741741.
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