A camp ranger of the Boy Scouts of America Avondale Scout Camp in Clinton was fatally shot Monday morning, said Gary Mertz, the CEO/Scout Executive of the Istrouma Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.

"This is an extremely difficult time for our Scouting family," Mertz wrote in a statement Monday afternoon. "We are sad to confirm the death of one of our Camp Rangers at the Avondale Scout Reservation."

Brad DeFranceschi, 48, was killed in a shooting about 11:15 a.m. Monday in front of his home on the camp's property, said East Feliciana Sheriff Jeff Travis. Mertz confirmed that no other scouts were harmed in the incident.

"We are working closely with law enforcement as they investigate this matter," Mertz wrote."While we are exploring the specifics of this tragic incident, we offer our deepest condolences to the victim and his family. Please join us in keeping all those affected in your thoughts and prayers."

DeFranceschi had worked at the campgrounds for the last 17 years and had become an cornerstone in their community, said Nolan Reynerson, who has worked and volunteered with Boy Scouts for much of his life.

"He put a smile on and wore his uniform proudly and was there for every event," Reynerson, 34, said. He said DeFranceschi went beyond the typical duties of a ranger of — more than 1,600 acres worth of campground maintenance and upkeep —and was also heavily involved and invested in the programming and events.

"He cared about the kids and did a lot for young men — and young ladies," Reynerson said. "He really cared a lot about the program, as much as he did taking care of the property."

He said DeFranceschi's son and daughter were involved in the scouting program, and he would volunteer with their troops. He said DeFranceschi was married.

The ranger also transformed the food served at the camp, employing skills he learned as a cook on a submarine with the U.S. Navy, Reynerson said.

"He could always put together something that tasted good," Reynerson said. He said DeFranceschi led their cooking crew called 'The Road Kill Cafe,' and made greatly improved meals, as well as brought a fruit and salad bar to campers.

"He's become a staple in the camp," Reynerson said. "He did whatever was needed, whether it was fixing something at the camp, teaching kids merit badges ... he was willing."

Reynerson said while DeFranceschi lived out the entire Scout Law, he most embodied being friendly.

"Whether it was a kid's first time being out or whether it was an old (friend), Brad was friendly and had a smile on his face and greeted people ... more than an (average) ranger," Reynerson said. "He was the face of Avondale."