Phillips County Mourns the Loss of Deputy Sheriff Brandon Gaede Following Tragic Shooting

Phillipsburg, KS –  The community of Phillips County is in deep mourning following the tragic death of Deputy Sheriff Brandon Gaede, who lost his life in the line of duty during an officer-involved shooting late Friday night in Phillipsburg, Kansas.

Deputy Gaede, a committed law enforcement officer and devoted family man, was fatally shot while responding to a call, marking one of the darkest nights in recent memory for the rural northwestern Kansas county. His sacrifice in service to his community has left a profound void not only among fellow officers at the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office but also among residents who knew him as a protector, neighbor, and friend.

A Dedicated Officer and Family Man

Deputy Gaede is remembered as a steadfast public servant, dedicated to upholding the law with integrity, humility, and heart. Beyond the badge, he was a beloved husband to Karlye and father to three young children, whose lives he centered around and cherished deeply.

“Brandon was the kind of deputy every sheriff hopes to have on the team—calm under pressure, respectful to all, and wholly committed to protecting the people of Phillips County,” said a statement from the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office. “He died doing what he believed in. And he did it with courage.”

The Incident

While official details of the shooting are still emerging, sources confirm that the incident occurred late Friday night, June 27, during a police response in Phillipsburg. Deputy Gaede was fatally wounded during an exchange involving gunfire, and despite the swift efforts of fellow officers and emergency medical responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has taken over the investigation into the shooting, as is standard protocol in officer-involved incidents. No information regarding the suspect or suspects involved has been publicly released at this time.

Officials have urged the public to be patient as investigators work to uncover the full circumstances of the tragedy.

Community in Shock and Mourning

News of Deputy Gaede’s passing has sent shockwaves through the small, tight-knit community of Phillipsburg and the broader law enforcement family throughout the state. Flags have been lowered to half-staff, and tributes have begun to pour in from neighboring departments, elected officials, and residents deeply shaken by the loss.

A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and messages has appeared outside the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, where friends, colleagues, and local families have gathered to grieve and honor the fallen deputy.

“He was more than a uniform,” said one local resident through tears. “He was a husband, a dad, a friend to so many of us. He kept us safe. And now we owe it to him to keep his memory alive.”

Support for the Gaede Family

Deputy Gaede’s wife, Karlye, and their three young children are now facing an unimaginable future without their husband and father. In the wake of this tragedy, local officials have announced that a fundraising campaign and support network are being organized to help the family with funeral expenses and long-term needs.

Community leaders are encouraging anyone who wishes to assist to follow updates through official law enforcement channels and trusted local charities, which will share verified donation links and event details in the coming days.

“Now more than ever, we must come together for Karlye and those beautiful children. We owe them our support, our strength, and our prayers,” said a statement from the Kansas State Fraternal Order of Police.

A Lasting Legacy

Deputy Brandon Gaede’s life of service, sacrifice, and love will not be forgotten. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day and the bravery they embody.

Plans for a public memorial service and law enforcement honors are expected to be announced in the coming days. For now, the community reflects, remembers, and grieves.

Rest in peace, Deputy Gaede. Your watch is over—but your legacy will live on.