A Riverside County sheriff’s lieutenant killed during an apparent hunting accident in southern Idaho was a 25-year law enforcement veteran, whose loss prompted the sheriff’s department Thursday to extend “heartfelt condolences” to his loved ones.
Lt. Nathan Kaas suffered a mortal gunshot wound early Sunday morning while on a mountain hunt for mule deer in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, near the Wyoming state line, according to published reports.
It was unclear whether his death was being investigated by the U.S. Forest Service, which has been impacted by the federal government shutdown, or the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Department.
“The Riverside Sheriff’s Office is not investigating this incident and, therefore, cannot provide any details regarding the circumstances,” according to an agency statement released Thursday. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Lt. Nathan Kaas’ family, friends and colleagues as they navigate this difficult time.”
Reports indicated that Kaas was in the federal preserve with a friend for a hunting excursion about 6 a.m. Sunday.
As the off-duty lawman’s friend was reportedly removing his rifle from its sleeve while the two men sat in a vehicle, the long gun discharged directly into one of Kaas’ legs.
The projectile apparently penetrated an artery, causing a significant blood loss before first responders could reach the location and render emergency aid, according to reports.
Kaas died at the scene, leaving behind a wife and three children, according to the Riverside Sheriffs’ Association, the union that represents deputies.
“Lt. Kaas began his career with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in April 2000,” according to the agency. “During his 25-year service, he held the ranks of investigator, sergeant and lieutenant. He was most recently assigned to the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team.”
During his years as a sergeant, particularly between 2015 and 2020, Kaas handled press releases for several sheriff’s stations, including Moreno Valley and Lake Elsinore. His name was familiar to media outlets throughout the region, appearing in statements concerning everything from carjackings and deadly crashes to murders.
There was no immediate word regarding funeral services for the fallen lawman.
