22-year-old Bay Area deputy dies after fall from horse

A 22-year-old Sonoma County correctional deputy died Thursday evening after a suspected fall from her horse in Santa Rosa, the Sheriff’s Office announced.

Kylee Johnson, who joined the agency in June 2024, was off duty at the time of the incident. Around 6:50 p.m., fire crews responded to a medical aid call on Taylor Avenue near Stony Point Avenue.

Officials said it was unclear whether Johnson died from the fall or from a medical event. An autopsy will determine her cause of death.

Following her death, a procession of patrol cars with lights activated escorted Johnson’s body to the Sonoma County Coroner’s Office — a tribute to her service to the department and community.

“This tragic loss is felt deeply by the Sheriff’s Office, Correctional Deputy Johnson’s loved ones, and the entire Sonoma County community,” the agency said in a statement on its Facebook page. “We ask for your compassion, patience, and support as we grieve together.”