31-year-old Firefighter Killed in Accidental Shooting

Kaleb Barker, a 31-year-old devoted family man and firefighter, died in an accidental shooting in Ringgold, Virginia. He was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound to his torso. The sheriff’s office will finalize their conclusions about the case, once they receive the medical examiner’s report.

Barker joined the fire department in 2020. The chief said he “…was a very special person. He had such a unique personality, great sense of humor.” He also noted Barker’s mechanical skills. “He just had mechanical aptitude that you hope every firefighter would have, and he’s going to be deeply missed.” The battalion chief said he was a joy to be around. The department set up a donation page for his family, and in a tribute to Barker, his fire engine will be on view at his funeral.

Sources

Kaylee Shipley, “31-year-old Firefighter Dies After Accidental Shooting in Ringgold,” wset.com March 6, 2025).

Cherisse Hoffman, “Danville Grieves the Loss of Kaleb Barker, a Dedicated Firefighter and Loving Family Man,” wset.com (March 6, 2025).