Kyle Evan Jackson Garrett, a 23-year-old male, died on Friday, December 3, 2021, at the Pineville Community Hospital in Pineville, Kentucky. Born on September 1, 1998, he was a dedicated member of his community, serving as a Bell County Dispatcher and a member of the Frakes Volunteer Fire Department. His death was the result of a tragic and unforeseen accident, and as such, there were no arrests or suspects in the case.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours, at approximately
1:00 a.m., inside the Bell County 911 Center. Garrett and another dispatcher were in the process of trading firearms when one of the weapons unintentionally discharged, striking and fatally wounding him. He was quickly transported to the Pineville Community Health Center, but he was pronounced deceased by the Bell County Coroner.
The Kentucky State Police, Post 10 Harlan, conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. Detective Andy Soltess led the inquiry, which ultimately confirmed that the shooting was accidental. An autopsy was performed at the State Medical Examiner's Office in Frankfort to further solidify the findings. With the evidence supporting the conclusion of an accidental discharge, no charges were filed against the other dispatcher involved, and the case did not lead to any litigation. The community mourned the loss of a young man known for his kindness and dedication to serving others.
