Death of John VanDenBerg
John VanDenBerg died on March 8, 2024, in a construction accident near Puget Sound, Washington — less than a year after being removed from ministry and just weeks after the FBI announced its investigation into the 2x2 church.
The Accident
What Happened
| Date | March 8, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Time | Approximately 2:00 PM PST |
| Location | Near Puget Sound, Washington (Gig Harbor area) |
| Type | Construction accident - roof collapse |
Details
John VanDenBerg was working on a house renovation project with Kent Kingman when part of the roof structure collapsed.
- One of their sons was present at the site
- The son helped lift a beam off Kent Kingman
- John VanDenBerg was fatally injured
- Kent Kingman was transported to a Seattle hospital via Life-Flight
Kent Kingman's Condition
Kent Kingman sustained serious injuries but survived. His wife Donna reported that "Kent was really banged up" but "was going to be okay."
Memorial Service
Original Plans
| Date | Saturday, March 30, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Time | 11:00 AM |
| Location | Peterson Middle School, 1380 Rosalia Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 |
| Reception | Light finger food following the service |
Cancellation
The memorial service was cancelled by Jonathan Wright, identified as a Worker and Minister.
A "Special Meeting" was still scheduled for April 14, 2024 at the same location, though the nature and outcome of that meeting is not documented.
Controversy
The handling of John's death generated controversy within the fellowship:
- Some noted there was no obituary published
- Some framed the lack of memorial as "a huge lack of forgiveness"
- Others pointed out that leadership still referred to him as "a friend and brother" despite the child abuse allegations
- The cancellation reflected the community's division over how to memorialize someone facing such serious accusations
Timeline Context
John VanDenBerg's death occurred at a significant moment:
Removed from ministry by Rob Newman
FBI announces investigation into 2x2 church
John VanDenBerg dies — 16 days after FBI announcement
Memorial service cancelled
His death came just 16 days after the FBI publicly announced its investigation, and less than 11 months after his removal from ministry.
Implications
John VanDenBerg's death means he will never face criminal prosecution for the alleged abuse. However:
- The FBI investigation continues into the broader pattern of abuse within the 2x2 church
- Those who allegedly covered up his crimes can still be held accountable
- The documentation of his case contributes to understanding institutional failures
- Victims' experiences remain valid regardless of the perpetrator's death
The death of an accused abuser does not erase the harm done to victims or absolve institutions that enabled the abuse.
The Investigation Continues
If you have information about abuse within the 2x2 church — including information about John VanDenBerg or those who covered for him — contact the FBI: