A member of the Danville Fire Department was killed during an accidental shooting. According to the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at 7:42 pm on Tuesday to to the 900 block of Countryside Drive in Ringgold, in reference to a subject suffering from a gunshot wound to his torso.

Upon arrival, law enforcement and emergency medical personnel found 31-year-old Kaleb Barker unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel transported Barker to SOVAH Health in Danville, where he was pronounced deceased.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the shooting was accidental. The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is awaiting the medical examiner’s report to conclude the investigation.

The Danville Fire Department posted a tribute to Barker on Facebook on Wednesday.

Kaleb was deeply loved—not just by his fellow firefighters, but by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His loss has created a void in our ranks that will be impossible to fill.

During his far too short tenure, Kaleb served this department with dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the job. He was more than just a firefighter—he was a fireman’s firefighter. In a short time, he made a lasting impact, embodying the very best of what it means to serve.

But more than a coworker, more than a friend, Kaleb was our brother. His presence, his laughter, and his dedication to the job will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Please keep Kaleb’s family, his wife Natalie, his son Noah, and his parents Kevin and Tonya in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest easy, brother. We’ll take it from here.