Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Releases Timeline of Tragic Officer-Involved Shooting That Killed Deputy Brandon Gaede and Suspect Kolton Griffith
SEDGWICK COUNTY, KS — The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office has released a detailed timeline of events following the tragic and fatal officer-involved shooting that took place on June 27, claiming the lives of Phillips County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Gaede, 33, and suspect Kolton Griffith, 32. The incident has sent shockwaves through law enforcement communities across Kansas and beyond, as disturbing new details emerge regarding the dangerous stockpile discovered at Griffith’s residence.
🔹 The Incident – June 27
At approximately 7:45 a.m., multiple law enforcement agencies were executing a high-risk warrant at Griffith’s rural property near the Sedgwick-Phillips County line. The warrant stemmed from an ongoing multi-county investigation into domestic terrorism, illegal weapons stockpiling, and potential bomb-making activity.
Deputy Brandon Gaede, a respected member of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office and a seven-year veteran of the force, was part of the tactical team assigned to the operation. Upon arrival, the team encountered immediate and intense resistance. According to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Griffith opened fire on the officers with a high-powered rifle from inside the home, striking Deputy Gaede and initiating a deadly gunfight.
Backup units responded quickly, and after a prolonged standoff lasting more than an hour, Griffith was fatally shot during the exchange. No other officers were injured during the incident, but the loss of Deputy Gaede was a devastating blow.
🔹 A Chilling Discovery
Following the incident, investigators conducted a thorough search of Griffith’s property, uncovering a disturbing cache of dangerous materials and weapons:
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33 pounds of explosive compounds, including:
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Ammonium perchlorate
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Ammonium nitrate (a powerful oxidizer often used in homemade explosives)
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Commercial-grade blasting caps
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20+ firearms, many of which were illegally modified
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A large stockpile of ammunition, including high-caliber rounds and armor-piercing bullets
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Manuals and digital plans for constructing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other destructive weapons
Authorities described the home as being “a ticking time bomb,” capable of producing a large-scale explosion that could have endangered surrounding rural communities.
🔹 Remembering Deputy Brandon Gaede
Deputy Brandon Gaede is being remembered as a dedicated, brave, and selfless law enforcement officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of his community. Known for his calm demeanor, strong leadership, and commitment to public safety, Gaede was beloved by colleagues and respected by residents throughout Phillips County.
“Brandon was more than just a deputy—he was a friend, a mentor, and a protector,” said Sheriff Don Daily of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office. “His death is a profound loss for all of us.”
Plans for a public memorial and funeral service are currently underway, with law enforcement agencies from across the Midwest expected to attend in honor of his sacrifice.
🔹 The Investigation Continues
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), along with federal partners from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) and FBI, have joined Sedgwick County authorities in piecing together the extent of Griffith’s plans and motives. Preliminary evidence suggests that Griffith may have been involved in or planning acts of domestic terrorism, but officials have cautioned that the investigation is ongoing.
“Given the quantity and nature of the materials found, it is likely we prevented a catastrophic event,” said Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter. “This tragedy underscores the real and present danger law enforcement officers face every day.”
🔹 A Call to Support
The community is rallying behind the Gaede family, offering condolences and organizing fundraisers to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for Brandon’s wife and two young children. A GoFundMe page has been established in his memory, and local businesses are also contributing.
🕊️ Deputy Brandon Gaede gave his life in the line of duty, and his legacy will not be forgotten.
🔹 How You Can Help
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Report tips about Griffith or related activities to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office: (316) 660-3900
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Donate to support the Gaede family via the official memorial fund
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Attend or participate in local memorial services and community vigils (details to be announced)
As Kansas mourns the loss of one of its bravest, we are reminded of the selfless dedication and sacrifice that law enforcement officers make to keep our communities safe. The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office promises a full and transparent investigation into the events of June 27, and justice for all those affected by this senseless tragedy.