BARREN COUNTY, Ky. — A Madison County, Ala. native and recruit with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources passed away Friday during a training activity in Barren County.
Officials with KDFWR said 24-year-old William "Tex" Bailey, a Game Warden recruit, experienced a medical emergency during a training activity around 1 p.m. on Friday.
A Kentucky State Police news release said KDFWR officers arrived at the scene to render aid until EMS arrived. Bailey was transported to the hospital and pronounced deceased.
Bailey was born in Alabama and played football for Madison Academy, then for Eastern Kentucky University, where he earned his bachelor's degree.
The team posted the following note on its Instagram page:
We are deeply saddened by the news of William “Tex” Bailey’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family and friends. A Teammate, A Friend, An Eternal Colonel.
Louisville Metro Police Department officials also shared their condolences:
"The men and women of LMPD grieve alongside our brothers and sisters across the Commonwealth as we mourn the loss of a KY Game Warden Recruit. May the William Bailey Family have peace during this difficult time. May our brothers and sisters who serve the entire Commonwealth also find peace as their agency mourns. Thank you for your service. #LMPD"
Kentucky State Police Post 3 is investigating the incident.
BeArded Warriors shared an update from Deborah Hamilton Chance regarding the services for her son, William "Tex" Bailey. The service will take place on the Madison Academy football field on Friday, November 8, at 3 p.m., where Tex will receive full Officer Honors.
Following the service, all are invited to a celebration of life at the farm.
