Phillipsburg, Kansas – New details have emerged regarding the fatal officer-involved shooting that claimed the lives of Phillips County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Gaede and suspect Kolton Griffith on Friday, June 27, 2025. The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, leading the independent investigation, released a timeline of events that sheds light on the tragic encounter.
The incident began with reports of explosions in Phillipsburg. At approximately 6:02 p.m., the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office received the first call about an explosion near 1st and E Streets. A responding deputy initially cleared the area, suspecting fireworks. However, by 8:31 p.m., three more calls reported loud booms in the same vicinity.
Deputy Gaede responded to these subsequent calls, speaking with concerned residents before searching for the source. He made contact with Kolton Griffith, who resided at 899 1st Street. At this initial interaction, Griffith denied involvement, and Deputy Gaede cleared the call around 8:48 p.m., though he remained in the area.
Recognizing the nature of the explosions likely exceeded typical fireworks, Deputy Gaede began reviewing Kansas statutes pertaining to the criminal use of explosives, which is a felony offense in the state.
The situation escalated at 9:18 p.m. when another explosion was reported from the same location. Deputy Gaede, still nearby, observed smoke and again approached Griffith, who was in his front yard. This time, Griffith admitted to setting off the explosive device, stating his intent was to provoke a citizen who had reported previous explosions.
Upon determining Griffith had violated state law, Deputy Gaede attempted to arrest him. As one handcuff was secured on Griffith’s left wrist, Griffith resisted, turned away, and drew a concealed revolver from his waistband. He fired five rounds, critically wounding Deputy Gaede. Despite his severe injuries, Deputy Gaede returned fire, discharging eight rounds and fatally striking Griffith.
A backup deputy arrived within seconds and immediately began life-saving efforts for Deputy Gaede, who was transported to a local hospital. Sadly, Deputy Gaede succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
As part of their ongoing investigation, detectives obtained a search warrant for Griffith’s residence. The Kansas Highway Patrol Hazardous Devices Unit assisted with the search, uncovering a significant cache of explosive materials, including over 33 pounds of ammonium perchlorate, ammonium nitrate, and commercial blasting caps. Investigators also recovered more than 20 firearms and a large stockpile of ammunition.
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office stated that the investigation has not indicated that Griffith specifically targeted Deputy Gaede. The inquiry remains ongoing, and upon its completion, the findings will be submitted to the Phillips County Attorney for review.
