Kolton Griffith, a 27-year-old resident of Phillipsburg, Kansas, tragically passed away on June 27, 2025, during a fatal officer-involved shooting following a confrontation over illegal fireworks. The incident, which also claimed the life of Phillips County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Gaede, shook the small community of Phillipsburg. This obituary reflects on Kolton Griffith’s life, the circumstances of his passing, and his impact on those around him, optimized for search visibility and respectful remembrance.
Early Life and Background
Born in 1998 in Phillipsburg, Kansas, Kolton Griffith grew up in a tight-knit rural community of approximately 2,300 residents, located just south of the Kansas-Nebraska border. Residing at 543 E Kiowa Rd, and later at 899 1st Street, Kolton was known to neighbors in Phillipsburg, a town known for its close community ties. While specific details about his early life, education, and career remain private, public records indicate connections to family members, including Toby Griffith, Dana Griffith, and Zachary Griffith, suggesting a rooted presence in the area.
The Tragic Incident
On June 27, 2025, at approximately 9:28 p.m., the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office received reports of illegal, non-consumer-grade fireworks being detonated in the 800 block of 1st Street in Phillipsburg. Deputy Brandon Gaede responded and contacted Kolton Griffith, who lived at 899 1st Street and was believed responsible for the explosions. Earlier that evening, Gaede had investigated similar reports of loud booms in the area, speaking with Griffith around 8:31 p.m., when Griffith denied involvement. After a subsequent explosion at 9:18 p.m., Griffith admitted to setting off an explosive device to provoke a neighbor who had reported the earlier incidents.
Determining that Griffith had violated Kansas statutes regarding the criminal use of explosives—a felony—Deputy Gaede attempted to arrest him. After securing one handcuff on Griffith’s left wrist, a struggle ensued. Griffith drew a concealed revolver from his waistband and fired five rounds, critically wounding Gaede in the left bicep, chest (hitting his vest), and femoral artery. Despite his injuries, Gaede returned fire, discharging eight rounds and fatally wounding Griffith, who died at the scene. Gaede was rushed to Phillips County Hospital but succumbed to his injuries at 10:24 p.m.
A search of Griffith’s residence, conducted with assistance from the Kansas Highway Patrol Hazardous Devices Unit, uncovered over 33 pounds of explosive materials, including ammonium perchlorate, ammonium nitrate, and commercial blasting caps, along with over 20 firearms and a large stockpile of ammunition. The investigation, led by the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office due to a conflict of interest with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, found no evidence that Griffith specifically targeted Deputy Gaede.
Community Response and Investigation
The deaths of Kolton Griffith and Deputy Brandon Gaede sent shockwaves through Phillipsburg, prompting an outpouring of grief and support. Social media posts on X described the incident as a “tragedy” for the small rural community, with outlets like @Deathnotice247 and @CJOnline reporting on the devastating loss of both lives. The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, reviewing witness statements, medical reports, and physical evidence to establish a full timeline of events. Findings will be submitted to the Phillips County Attorney’s Office upon completion.
A GoFundMe page, established by Sedgwick County FOP Lodge #74, supports Deputy Gaede’s family, and cash or check donations are accepted at Farmers State Bank in Phillipsburg. While no public memorial fund has been announced for Griffith, the community mourns both losses.
Personal Life and Legacy
Details about Kolton Griffith’s personal life are limited, respecting the privacy of his family and loved ones. Public records confirm his residence in Phillipsburg and connections to family members, but little is known about his hobbies, career, or community involvement. The discovery of explosives and firearms at his home suggests an interest in such materials, though the investigation clarified that his actions were not directed at Deputy Gaede personally. Griffith’s life, though cut short, was part of the fabric of Phillipsburg, a community now grappling with the loss of two lives in a single tragic event.
Honoring Kolton Griffith’s Memory
To honor Kolton Griffith, consider:
- Respecting Family Privacy: Refrain from speculation and respect the family’s need for space during this time.
- Community Support: Engage in local efforts to promote safety and unity in Phillipsburg, reflecting on the impact of this tragedy.
- Sharing Condolences: While no official guestbook is listed, condolences can be shared respectfully through community channels or on platforms like Legacy.com if an obituary is posted.
Accessing Obituary Information
As of July 5, 2025, no official obituary for Kolton Griffith has been published through major outlets like Legacy.com or local funeral homes. News reports from sources such as KWCH, KAKE, and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office provide details of the incident. For updates, search “Kolton Griffith obituary Phillipsburg” or visit www.sedgwickcounty.org for investigation-related information.
SEO Optimization for Visibility
This obituary incorporates keywords like “Kolton Griffith obituary,” “Phillipsburg Kansas shooting,” and “Brandon Gaede incident” to enhance search engine visibility. Sharing on platforms like X, where posts about the incident gained significant attention, ensures broader reach while maintaining a respectful tone.
Conclusion
Kolton Griffith’s tragic death at 27 in a Phillipsburg shooting, alongside Deputy Brandon Gaede, marks a somber moment for the Kansas community. While the incident stemmed from a confrontation over illegal explosives, it underscores the complexities of human interactions and their consequences. This tribute seeks to honor Griffith’s memory respectfully, acknowledging the loss felt by his family and community. For further details or to follow the investigation, visit www.sedgwickcounty.org or major news outlets like www.kwch.com.