Adams County, CO – The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of Commander Karl Smalley, who died in the line of duty Monday morning, Dec. 8, 2025.
According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around dawn to a report of a missing person in the Watkins area. Upon arrival, Commander Smalley was found near Box Elder Creek. Officials said he was not breathing and was later pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities confirmed that he had just begun his workday and was on duty at the time.
Commander Smalley, 67, served the Adams County Sheriff’s Office for more than 30 years. At the time of his passing, he was Commander of District 5, which includes the Watkins and Strasburg regions. Throughout his long career, he led numerous specialized programs, including the Explorer Post, Posse, Reserve Program, and Mobile Field Force. He also contributed to the Rampart Search and Rescue Team and was known as a subject matter expert for driving instruction.
The department described Smalley as a compassionate leader and mentor whose influence extended throughout the agency and community. “He was a devoted husband, trusted colleague, and a dear friend to many,” officials said in the department’s announcement.
Funeral details will be released at a later date. The family has requested privacy as arrangements are finalized.
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