Gallatin County Mourns the Passing of Detention Sergeant Michael Flohr After Tragic Hunting Accident
MAGPIE GULCH, Mont. (November 1, 2025) — The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and the wider Montana law enforcement community are mourning the loss of Detention Sergeant Michael Flohr, who tragically passed away in a hunting accident on Saturday afternoon in the Magpie Gulch area.
According to preliminary information released by the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were dispatched shortly after 3:15 p.m. on Saturday following reports of an injured hunter in a remote section of Magpie Gulch, a rugged area known for its steep terrain and dense forest.
Deputies, local search and rescue personnel, and medical teams from Gallatin County Search and Rescue quickly responded to the scene. Despite their efforts to render immediate aid, Sergeant Flohr was pronounced deceased at the location.
Sheriff Dan Springer confirmed in an official statement that Flohr’s passing appears to have been the result of a tragic accidental discharge during a hunting outing. The incident remains under active investigation, but officials emphasized that foul play is not suspected.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of one of our own,” said Sheriff Springer. “Sergeant Flohr was a dedicated public servant, a respected colleague, and a dear friend to many in our department and community. His commitment to service and his compassion for others defined his career.”
Sergeant Michael Flohr, a veteran member of the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, had served in the Detention Division for more than 12 years. Colleagues described him as a professional who combined integrity with kindness — a mentor to younger deputies and a source of calm under pressure.
Fellow officers said Flohr was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in Montana’s wilderness. “He loved the mountains, the quiet, and the camaraderie that came with hunting,” said one colleague. “He always reminded us to respect nature and stay safe out there.”
In the wake of the tragedy, flags at the Gallatin County Detention Center have been lowered to half-staff in honor of Flohr’s service. Local law enforcement agencies from across the state have sent condolences and offered support to the department and Flohr’s family.
Community members have also begun leaving flowers and messages at the Sheriff’s Office in Bozeman, where an impromptu memorial has formed.
Gallatin County officials say grief counselors are being made available to staff and first responders who worked alongside Sergeant Flohr. The Montana Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association released a joint statement recognizing his dedication to protecting the community and the profound loss felt across the state.
“Sergeant Flohr’s passing reminds us of the human side of those who serve,” the statement read. “He devoted his life to keeping others safe, both inside and outside the line of duty.”
Plans for a public memorial service and honor guard tribute are currently being arranged by the Sheriff’s Office in coordination with Flohr’s family. Details will be released once arrangements are finalized.
As Gallatin County comes to terms with this sudden loss, Sheriff Springer urged the public to keep Sergeant Flohr’s family and fellow officers in their thoughts. “We’ve lost a good man,” he said quietly. “And while our hearts are broken, we will carry his memory forward in the way we serve others.”