PHILLIPSBURG, KS — A Friday night incident in Phillipsburg turned deadly when Phillips County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Gaede was shot and later died from his injuries. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, was also killed in the exchange.
He leaves behind his wife and three young children.
The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. Friday at the corner of 1st and E Street, where Deputy Gaede was responding to a fireworks complaint. According to a statement from the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, what began as a routine call escalated into a life-threatening confrontation.
“Before shots were fired, the deputy was responding to a fireworks call,” the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook shortly before 11 p.m. They advised the public to avoid the area, confirmed that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) had been notified and would assist with the investigation, and requested prayers for all involved.
Deputy Gaede was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The KBI has taken the lead in investigating the shooting, working to reconstruct the events and determine the series of events that led to the deadly exchange.
This tragic loss has deeply affected the Phillips County community. Colleagues remember Deputy Gaede as a dedicated public servant who responded to calls with courage and compassion. His death comes as a somber reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face—even during seemingly routine assignments.
As the investigation continues, residents are encouraged to avoid the area and cooperate with authorities. Further updates are expected as the KBI releases more information.
Deputy Gaede’s family, friends, and fellow officers are now left to grieve a life cut short in the line of duty. Memorial arrangements and details on how residents can offer support will be announced in the coming days.
In our prayers: Deputy Brandon Gaede, his family, and the first responder community in Phillips County.
