Wife of Slain Pope County Deputy Issues Statement Detailing Anger, Grief and Heartbreak Over Husband’s Loss

(KNSI) — The widow of slain Pope County deputy Joshua Owen issued a statement Thursday, expressing her anger and heartbreak over the loss and her gratitude for the outpouring of support the family has received in the days since.

Shannon Owen, clutching her late husband’s photo, flanked by another deputy and Deputy Owen’s cousin, Josh Palmateer, did not speak during a quick press conference. Instead, Palmateer read the statement Shannon wrote:

“I want to start by thanking everyone who has come out and supported Rylan and me over the last few days. The outpouring of love from our law enforcement family and our broader community has been amazing. And I’m so grateful. I’ve never received this much support for anything. This community is helping me in the moments when very simply, I don’t know what to do. In the hours of darkness, you’ve wrapped your arms around my son and me to help us get through this enormous loss.

“Josh and I were together for 18 years, the last 12 of which were right here in Pope County, where we put down our family’s roots. Even through the tears and all the emotions, I can still see Josh everywhere; in the pictures that decorate our fridge, in the fire pit he built by hand, and in the neighborhood we call home.

“Josh was the most incredible man and such a devoted father to Rylan. He was selfless and would help anyone who asked and even saw where he could help out those who hadn’t even asked yet.

“So many people have asked in the last few days how I’m doing. Honestly, I’m overwhelmed. Our family and friends have run the gamut of emotions. We’ve smiled and laughed at memories, and we’ve shed tears for the man who was stolen from our lives.

“While it’s been a whirlwind since that awful night when he did not come home, I found a few quiet moments. To say I’m sad doesn’t come close to covering some of those moments. Maybe more than that, I’m angry. I’m angry that this happened. I’m angry that his beautiful life was cut short. And I’m angry that my son’s father was taken from him far too soon. It wasn’t supposed to be this way. Still, I feel I must be strong for our son, for myself, and for our community.

“Losing Josh will never go away. Ever. The cameras in media will pack up, and many people will go back to their daily lives. But for me and Rylan, this new reality will never end. There will forever be a hole in our family that Josh’s presence and light filled.

“As the days and weeks pass, I ask you to please continue to lift us up in prayers as we go through the next few days, weeks and months and years. Pray for the safety of our deputies and police. Continue to share Josh’s story with each other, share his legacy. In this way, we can help his spirit last forever.

“Thank you.”

It was also confirmed to Alpha News Governor Tim Walz was told to stay away from the funeral, which is set for Saturday at the Minnewaska Area High School gym. More than 2,000 people are expected to attend.

Deputy Owen was shot to death while responding to a domestic assault call at an apartment in Cyrus on April 15th. Two other officers were also shot but are expected to recover.

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