Griffith pulled a concealed handgun and opened fire, striking Gaede. Despite his injuries, the 30-year-old deputy returned fire, hitting Griffith multiple times. Griffith died at the scene. Gaede was rushed to the hospital but died later that night at 10:24 p.m.

From Small-Town Roots to Sheriff’s Star

Gaede’s journey into law enforcement began after graduating from Colby High School in 2013 and earning his associate’s degree from Colby Community College in 2015. He started as a jailer in Thomas County before joining the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office in 2017.

In July 2024, he was promoted to undersheriff, recognition of his leadership and dedication, though he was not currently serving as undersheriff at the time of his death.

A Family Left Behind

The tragedy left behind Gaede’s wife and their three young children, who