Retired Jefferson County Reserve Deputy Identified as Middletown Homicide Victim
John McQuillen Obituary, Death – Authorities have released new details in the ongoing homicide investigation of 65-year-old John McQuillen, a retired Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reserve deputy, who was found shot and killed in Middletown on March 12, 2025.
Discovery of the Crime Scene
McQuillen was discovered outside in the 1200 block of Winter Springs Court around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. He was rushed to the University of Louisville Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
McQuillen had served 10.5 years with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office before retiring in July 2021.
Suspicious Package Found
During the investigation, Middletown Police and Louisville Metro Police uncovered a suspicious package near the crime scene. The Louisville Metro Police Department’s bomb squad was called in to assess the package, which was then safely detonated in a controlled explosion.
Vehicle Located & Investigation Progress
Authorities used public assistance to locate a vehicle linked to the case. Investigators have since interviewed multiple individuals and confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Officials, however, reassured residents that there is no known threat to public safety.
Arrest of Brandon McQuillen
At 11 a.m. Thursday, Louisville Metro Police arrested 43-year-old Brandon McQuillen. He was found in the area of the homicide investigation and was reportedly violating an emergency protective order (EPO).
Brandon McQuillen was also in possession of an AR-15 rifle, which led to charges for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and violating an EPO/DVO.
Possible Connection to the Homicide
Although police have not officially linked Brandon McQuillen to the murder, court records confirm that he is John McQuillen’s son.
Brandon McQuillen’s Criminal History
In 2020, Brandon McQuillen was arrested for a violent crime that took place in 2019, where he allegedly chained a woman inside a home against her will.
According to police reports, he was engaging in consensual activity with the woman when she asked him to stop. Instead, he allegedly padlocked a chain around her neck to the ceiling and subjected her to physical abuse, including:
- Tasing her multiple times
- Beating her with a pool cue
- Punching her repeatedly
The victim was restrained for nearly 12 hours before a former roommate of McQuillen’s called the police, prompting him to flee the scene.
Originally charged with kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment, and other offenses, most of the charges were reduced in a plea deal, and he was sentenced to three years in prison.
Call for Information
The Louisville Metro Police Department continues to investigate the homicide of John McQuillen. They encourage anyone with information to contact them via:
- Phone: 574-LMPD
- Online Crime Tip Portal
Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
