SAN JOSE, Calif. — City Employee Max Ryan Identified Among Three Killed in Tragic Early Morning Shooting

SAN JOSE, Calif. — City Employee Max Ryan Identified Among Three Killed in Tragic Early Morning Shooting

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Authorities have identified Max Ryan, an employee of the San Jose Housing Department, as one of three victims fatally shot during a horrific act of violence that unfolded early Tuesday morning. The incident, which occurred just before dawn, has left city officials, co-workers, and residents stunned, as details continue to emerge about what authorities are calling one of the city’s deadliest shootings of the year.

The shooting took place in a residential neighborhood in East San Jose, where police responded around 5:45 a.m. to multiple reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, all three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

The San Jose Police Department (SJPD) has since launched a full-scale homicide investigation, and while a suspect has reportedly been taken into custody, their identity has not yet been released pending formal charges.

A Life of Public Service: Remembering Max Ryan

Among the victims was Max Ryan, described by city officials as a dedicated longtime employee of the Housing Department who had committed his career to serving San Jose’s most vulnerable populations. Ryan was known for his compassion, integrity, and tireless efforts to expand affordable housing access across the city.

“Max was more than a colleague — he was a friend to so many, a problem solver, and a passionate public servant,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan in an emotional press statement Tuesday evening. “His loss is not just felt in City Hall, but across every neighborhood he worked to make better.”

Ryan had been with the Housing Department for over a decade, where he played key roles in tenant outreach programs, homelessness prevention initiatives, and community housing development. Colleagues said he often went “above and beyond” the duties of his role, working long hours and advocating for equity in housing policy.

The Shooting: What We Know So Far

The incident occurred on a quiet street near the intersection of White Road and Aborn Road, a neighborhood normally characterized by calm and family life. Witnesses reported hearing an argument before shots rang out, prompting multiple calls to 911.

When officers arrived, they found three adults — two men and one woman — unresponsive. All were declared deceased on the scene. While the motive has not been publicly confirmed, early indications suggest the shooting may have stemmed from a personal dispute involving individuals known to one another.

Investigators have been combing the area for evidence, including doorbell camera footage, and have recovered at least one firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Police confirmed late Tuesday afternoon that a person of interest was detained nearby and is currently being questioned.

“This was not a random act of violence,” said SJPD spokesperson Officer Steve Aponte. “We believe the suspect and victims were acquainted, and we are pursuing leads actively to determine the full picture.”

A Community in Mourning

The death of Max Ryan has shaken the San Jose city government, where staff members held a moment of silence Tuesday afternoon at the Housing Department offices. Flags at San Jose City Hall were lowered to half-staff in honor of Ryan and the other two victims.

“This tragedy hits painfully close to home,” said Housing Director Jacky Morales-Ferrand. “Max was the kind of person who carried the weight of this city’s challenges on his shoulders and did so with grace and purpose. His passing is a devastating loss for all of us.”

Outside of work, Ryan was known as a lover of the arts, an avid cyclist, and a mentor to young professionals entering the field of public policy. Friends say he had a unique ability to bring people together — even in the face of adversity.

Investigation Continues

As of Wednesday morning, authorities have not released the names of the other two victims, pending notification of their families. The San Jose Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at 408-947-STOP (7867) or online at svcrimestoppers.org.

Detectives are also working with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, which will determine formal charges against the detained individual once all evidence is reviewed.

Gun Violence in San Jose

The shooting marks one of several fatal incidents in San Jose in recent months and underscores growing concern over interpersonal gun violence in the Bay Area. While the overall violent crime rate has trended downward in recent years, homicides involving firearms have seen a troubling uptick.

Community leaders are once again calling for a recommitment to conflict resolution resources, mental health services, and community policing initiatives.

“We have to do more — not just to respond to these tragedies, but to prevent them before they start,” said Councilmember Peter Ortiz, who represents part of East San Jose.

Final Thoughts

Max Ryan’s legacy is one of hope, service, and unwavering dedication to others. As San Jose mourns his tragic and untimely death, the city also remembers the values he stood for: compassion, justice, and a belief in the power of community.

Funeral arrangements are pending, and a public memorial is being planned by the Housing Department to honor his life and contributions.

“Max’s work touched thousands of lives,” said Mayor Mahan. “And though his life was stolen far too soon, his impact will live on in the homes he helped build and the people he helped lift up.”

🕯️ Max Ryan – A Life of Service, A Legacy of Compassion
1988 – 2025