Relatives and close friends are mourning the loss of a dedicated worker, an active church member and a loving father and husband.
John Drake, 45, of Taylor, died from a self-inflicted injury in a vehicle parked in front of the Taylor Police Department Wednesday, April 3, around 8:35 a.m., according to Commander Joseph Branson.
“One of our officers noticed that someone parked in front of the building, which is a little unusual,” Branson said. “Typically, people don’t park right in front of the police station. The officer noticed that he was slumped over, checked the scene and found the deceased.”
Branson said officers found the victim in a white Ford F-150 truck and added that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, likely caused by a semi-automatic Ruger 9mm handgun found at the scene.
Drake’s family said he leaves a legacy of kindness and generosity.
“He had a passion for his family and friends, always eager to spend quality time with them and also for using his hands to build things for those he loved,” Drake’s obituary reads.
Family members said he had a zest for life, enjoying activities like hunting, fishing and participating in obstacle races.
Drake was employed at Iteris Inc. in Round Rock. According to his LinkedIn account, Drake worked for the company as a traffic signal estimator for over 11 years.
In addition, relatives said Drake was an active member of First Baptist Church in Taylor.
“He found fulfillment in serving in the Men’s Ministry and ensuring the safety of his church community as part of the church security team,” the obituary said.
One of Drake’s neighbors described him as a nice guy who would occasionally trim tree limbs for her elderly father.
Another neighbor said he didn’t know Drake very well since he recently moved to the street, but also thought Drake seemed nice from their limited interactions.
During the investigation, which was assisted by the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office crime scene unit, police said they did not find a note or any indication of why the victim chose the police department.
Police Chief Henry Fluck said the police department’s victim service unit coordinator and a pastor were available to help with relatives or friends grieving.
“We just offer condolences to the family,” Fluck said. “We feel very sad about what’s happened.”
Taylor Police Department recommends anyone struggling with mental health to contact Bluebonnet Trails’ hotline at 1-800-841-1255.
The First Baptist Church will hold a memorial service for John Drake Tuesday, April 9 at 11 a.m. The church is located at 2500 Mallard Lane in Taylor.
