10/16/2026
NATCHITOCHES PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE EXTENDS HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES FOLLOWING LINE-OF-DUTY DEATH OF U.S. FOREST SERVICE WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER IN RAPIDES PARISH
(Natchitoches Parish)—The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office extends our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers to the United States Forest Service, family, friends, and fellow firefighters of U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter Kaitlyn “KK” Gallagher, 24, of Alexandria, Louisiana, who tragically lost her life in the line of duty while battling a wildfire in Kisatchie National Forest in Rapides Parish on October 14, 2026.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office frequently partners with the U.S. Forest Service in responding to law enforcement matters, wildfires, search and rescue operations, and other emergencies within Kisatchie National Forest in Natchitoches Parish. Through these partnerships, we have developed a deep appreciation and respect for the dedication, courage, and professionalism of the men and women who serve and protect our national forests and surrounding communities.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of this tragic loss,” said Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright. “Our U.S. Forest Service partners are part of our extended public safety family. These brave men and women willingly place themselves in harm’s way to protect lives, property, and our natural resources. Kaitlyn’s courage, commitment to duty, and willingness to serve others represent the very best of public service. Our hearts are heavy for her family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this incredibly difficult time.”
Sheriff Wright added, “We ask the citizens of Natchitoches Parish to join us in keeping Kaitlyn’s family, loved ones, and the entire U.S. Forest Service family in their thoughts and prayers. May God provide them with strength, comfort, peace, and understanding as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.”
The dangers faced by wildland firefighters are often unpredictable, requiring extraordinary courage, physical endurance, and personal sacrifice. Their dedication to protecting communities and preserving our forests should never be taken for granted.
Today, we honor Kaitlyn “KK” Gallagher for her service, bravery, and ultimate sacrifice. Her commitment to protecting others will not be forgotten.
May God bless and comfort her family, friends, and fellow firefighters.
Rest in Peace, Kaitlyn “KK” Gallagher.
It is with very heavy hearts that we share the news that on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, wildland firefighter, Kaitlyn “KK” Gallagher, 24, of Alexandria, Louisiana, died in the line of duty when she was struck by a tree while responding to the Broken Creek Fire, a 10-acre wildfire now contained, which was in Rapides Parish on the Kisatchie National Forest.
“As we experience this terrible tragedy, our prayers are with KK’s family, friends, and all who knew her,” said Lisa Lewis, Forest Supervisor. “The loss of KK is deeply felt throughout the Forest Service, the entire wildland fire community, and our local community. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone who was touched by her life.”
KK joined the U.S. Forest Service as a Wildland Firefighter Apprentice in 2025. She spent two summers on the Shoshone National Forest in Wyoming, serving on both engine and wildland fire modules. While working for the Kisatchie National Forest, KK assisted with prescribed burns and responding to wildfires. Her joy for life, heart for service, and love of outdoors made her a valued member of the U.S. Forest Service. Her family stated that KK’s passion was sharing her faith in Jesus, a passion she lived out while helping shape young lives as a Youth Leader at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church and Girls Basketball and Softball coach at Holy Savior Menard High School, both in Alexandria.
The Forest Service is providing support to KK’s family, crewmates and other affected employees. The Forest Service Honor Guard is standing with KK’s family and providing a flag memorial service honoring her.
