Returned Missionary Accidentally Shot by Family Member

A 21-year-old woman from Blackfoot, Idaho, died Friday after being accidentally shot during a family hunting trip, according to the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner.

Authorities identified the victim as Kaylanee Orr, a recently returned missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ. Fremont County Coroner Brenda Dye confirmed that Orr died from an accidental gunshot wound while on a trip with relatives in a remote area of the county.

Orr’s aunt, Amanda Graff, told KSL-TV that a firearm belonging to one of the family members “accidentally discharged,” striking Orr in the chest. Graff said relatives immediately began performing CPR and continued for more than an hour as they waited for emergency crews to arrive. Orr was pronounced dead at the scene.

Dye said the incident has been ruled accidental. No further details have been released, and no criminal charges have been announced.

Orr had recently returned from serving in the Hamilton New Zealand Mission and was married earlier this year at the Pocatello Idaho Temple. Family members described her as energetic, loving, and deeply connected to her faith.

“She loved to be around family and do activities outdoors,” Graff told KSL-TV. She added that Orr had “a million friends” and had recently gone with her mother and sisters to Jackson to see the fall colors.

Orr’s social media posts during and after her mission often reflected her religious devotion and gratitude toward family. In messages shared online, she frequently wrote about faith, prayer, and finding strength through Jesus Christ.

In one 2023 post, she wrote that she loved her family, calling them her “#1 supporters” while serving her mission. In others, she expressed appreciation for the Book of Mormon and spoke about turning to God in times of difficulty.

Family and community members have shared messages of remembrance and faith following her death. A Spotfundfundraiser organized by her aunt invites friends and neighbors to assist with funeral expenses and support the family.

Another relative, Kristina Anderson, wrote that Orr, “a newly married and returned missionary,” had been involved in a fatal accident and thanked the community for its “love and support.”

Community members have posted tributes online, many describing Orr’s example of optimism and kindness.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Orr’s passing has drawn condolences from across southeastern Idaho, where friends and family remember her as a devoted missionary, loving wife, and source of light and faith.