by Wes Harris
A U.S. Forest Service employee assigned to the Kisatchie National Forest died in the line of duty Wednesday while responding to a wildlife.
Officials announced wildland firefighter Kaitlyn “KK” Gallagher, 24, of Alexandria, died 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.”
Gallagher 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 in Louisiana, Gallagher assisted with prescribed burns and responding to wildfires.
According to Kisatchie National Forest officials, Gallagher’s 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 her 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.
The Forest Service and the National Weather Service say extreme drought conditions in north Louisiana have dangerously increased the chances of wildfire and urge the public to take precautions such as no outside burning or use of mechanized equipment that might cause a spark.
