Police have identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred Saturday afternoon near the Denton Downtown Square. The victim, 61-year-old Jon Ruff, was taken to the hospital following the incident but was later pronounced dead.

According to the Denton Police Department, officers responded to multiple reports of gunfire in the 200 block of W. Hickory Street just after noon. Preliminary investigations indicate the shooting stemmed from a disturbance between Ruff, who was experiencing homelessness, and another man who was with his family on the Square. The altercation continued down the street, where the shooter fired multiple times at Ruff.

The shooter remained on the scene and was detained for questioning by police. Authorities have not yet made an arrest, and the shooter continues to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

Local businesses expressed sadness over the incident, with Clara Jackson, an employee at Cartwright’s Ranch House, sharing that she had often given food to Ruff. She said that he had a reputation of being a familiar face in the community.

“This is still like someone’s child,” said Jaslyn Taylor, another local employee, speaking on behalf of the broader impact the tragedy had on the community.

Denton Police assured the public that there is no active threat and that this was an isolated incident. They remain committed to gathering all facts and ensuring safety in the downtown area. Officers continue to maintain a visible presence, especially as the University of North Texas (UNT) welcomes new students during move-in week.

Anyone with additional information or video footage of the incident is urged to contact Detective Badiru at (940) 349-7977.