WICHITA, Kan. — The community is mourning the loss of Deputy Brandon Gaede, who was killed while responding to a call about illegal fireworks in Phillipsburg on Friday night. The incident, which has deeply affected those within law enforcement and the local community, underscores the risks officers face daily while serving.
Deputy Gaede, a member of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, was shot during an altercation with a suspect identified as Kolton Griffith, 27. Law enforcement officials reported that the shooting occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m. while Gaede was investigating the fireworks complaint at a residential location on 1st Street. After determining he had probable cause to make an arrest, Gaede attempted to take Griffith into custody. In a sudden turn of events, Griffith produced a concealed handgun and fired at Gaede, fatally wounding him.
In a tragic response, Gaede returned fire, striking Griffith multiple times before he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to the hospital, Deputy Gaede was pronounced dead just before 10:30 p.m., leaving behind a grieving family and community.
On Saturday, a procession of first responders from across Kansas honored Deputy Gaede by escorting his body to Wichita for an autopsy. Members of various agencies formed honor guards along the route, standing in solemn tribute to the fallen officer. Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan spoke to the profound impact of Gaede’s loss and pledged ongoing support for the deputy’s family, emphasizing that their support would extend beyond the funeral.
“This is just the very beginning of the support that this family, who is obviously devastated right now, will receive from law enforcement,” Sullivan remarked, underscoring the unity within the law enforcement community during such challenging times.
The investigation into the officer-involved shooting has been handed over to Sedgwick County, at the request of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, due to a potential conflict of interest stemming from the familial ties of an involved party.
Deputy Gaede’s death marks a significant loss not only for Phillips County but also for the broader law enforcement community in Kansas. As the investigation continues, officials and community members alike reflect on the sacrifices made by those in the line of duty.
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