The Forest Lake community stands united in grief, grappling with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Detective Josh Brown, who was found deceased on Monday, August 11, 2025. His untimely passing has left an indelible void—not just within the ranks of the Forest Lake Police Department but in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless residents whose lives he touched with his quiet strength and boundless compassion.
Josh Brown joined the Forest Lake Police Department on October 28, 2017, beginning his career as a patrol officer before ascending to the role of detective. From the moment he pinned on his badge, he embodied the essence of public service. His colleagues paint a vivid picture of a man whose dedication was matched only by his humanity—a detective with a razor-sharp mind for investigation, a steady hand in the face of chaos, and a heart that never failed to see the people behind the cases. Whether he was consoling a victim, mentoring a rookie officer, or engaging with the community, Josh had a rare gift for forging connections that made everyone feel seen and valued.
In a poignant statement released on Monday, the Forest Lake Police Department laid bare the depth of their sorrow: “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our brother, Detective Josh Brown. He was not only a remarkable detective but also a beloved father, husband, brother, and teammate. His absence will be deeply felt across our department and the law enforcement family.” These words echo the sentiment of a department that viewed Josh not just as a colleague but as a cornerstone of their mission to protect and serve.
To Josh, policing was never merely a job—it was a calling that he answered with unwavering resolve. His investigative prowess was legendary, but it was his empathy that truly set him apart. Colleagues recall how he could diffuse tension with a kind word or a well-timed joke, how he listened intently to those in distress, and how he guided younger officers with patience and wisdom. In the eyes of the community, he was more than a badge; he was a protector, a confidant, and a friend whose presence made Forest Lake feel safer, stronger, and more connected.
The circumstances surrounding Detective Brown’s death remain under investigation, with authorities stating that no foul play is suspected at this time. While the details are still forthcoming, the loss has sent shockwaves through a tight-knit department and a community that leaned on Josh’s steady presence. The Forest Lake Police Department, led by Public Safety Director and Chief of Police Richard R. Peterson, has vowed to honor his memory by continuing the work he held dear, upholding the values of service, integrity, and compassion that defined his career.
Beyond his professional legacy, Josh’s life was anchored by his devotion to his family. A proud husband and father, he poured his heart into his wife and children, who were the center of his world. Friends describe a man whose infectious laugh could light up a room, whose love for the outdoors—whether hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of Minnesota’s lakes—reflected his zest for life. He had a knack for bringing people together, fostering moments of joy and camaraderie that those who knew him will cherish forever.
On Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025, the Forest Lake Police Department held a solemn procession to honor their fallen brother, inviting the community to line the streets of Broadway and Lake Street to pay their respects. As his hearse made its way to Mattson Funeral Home between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m., residents stood shoulder to shoulder, waving flags or placing hands over their hearts in a silent tribute to a man who gave so much to their city. The department’s call for community support was a testament to Josh’s impact—a reminder that his legacy extends far beyond the walls of the police station.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be shared in the coming days, offering an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance. For now, the Forest Lake Police Department has opened its doors to condolences, encouraging residents to share stories, memories, and messages of support for the Brown family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Detective Josh Brown’s life was a testament to the power of service, the strength of compassion, and the enduring impact of a single individual’s commitment to others. His memory will live on in the cases he solved, the lives he touched, and the love he shared with his family and community. As Forest Lake mourns, it also celebrates a man who exemplified what it means to serve with honor, to love with depth, and to leave the world better than he found it. May his legacy inspire us all, and may his family find solace in the outpouring of love that surrounds them in this time of sorrow.
