I returned home from practicing my sax an hour or so ago, dipped into Facebook, and was stunned to learn of the accidental death of Andy Gabrielson. The radar is lit up tonight with scores of Spotter Network icons spelling out the initials “A G” across the state of Kansas in his honor.

I’m just sickened by the news of Andy’s passing. I never met him, but like many storm chasers, I’ve seen and admired his work and his dedication. He was just 24 years old, barely more than a kid, but already he had attained an impressive track record. If storms were firing anywhere in the the continental United States, Andy’s SN icon was sure to be there. I am saddened to think that henceforth it will be missing.

But as much as the loss of Andy will be felt by the storm chasing community, our loss is nothing compared to that of his family. One idiot drunk driver headed the wrong way down the Turner Turnpike in Oklahoma has left a young wife without a husband and little girl without a dad. It is sad beyond belief. To the Gabrielson family, if you chance upon this post: I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are most truly with you.