It is an Honor-2-Honor the brave men and women of Public Safety that give their lives in service to their fellow man. There truly is no greater love. May their names never be forgotten and their memories live on thru all of us. We Will Never Forget.... Jan 1, 2023 - YTD 49
On Monday, May 8, 2023, Lieutenant Richard Michael Hempel responded to an EMS call at a residence. On Tuesday morning, May 9, 2023, he began to feel ill and became unresponsive. 9-1-1 was immediately dispatched and he was transported to the Limestone Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased from an apparent heart attack. Lieutenant Hempel was also a paramedic for the Limestone Medical Center.
Caleb Conley
Age: 35
E.O.W: 05-22-2023
Deputy Sheriff Caleb Conley was shot and killed while conducting a traffic stop near mile marker 127 on southbound I-75 in Georgetown at about 4:45 pm. The subject fled the scene but was arrested a short time later. He has been charged with the murder of a police officer, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, burglary, theft of an automobile, wanton endangerment, and fleeing/evading police. Deputy Conley was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Scott County Sheriff's Office for four years. He is survived by his wife, children, and parents.
Michael Kunovich Sergeant
Age: 0
E.O.W: 05-19-2023
Sergeant Michael Kunovich suffered a fatal heart attack following a violent struggle with a man in the 2500 block of State Road 16 in St. Augustine.
The man was sitting in the dark outside of a closed business when Sergeant Kunovich approached him at about 9:00 pm. When Sergeant Kunovich attempted to pat the man down for weapons the subject attempted to flee. Sergeant Kunovich and other deputies struggled with the subject for over six minutes, during which the man attempted to disarm him of his taser. After the man was placed in handcuffs he was able to access a pocket knife which had to be forcibly removed from his hands.
Sergeant Kunovich collapsed moments after the man was put in custody. The man was charged with resisting with violence and felony murder. Sergeant Kunovich had served with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office for 25 years.
Scott Fraser
Age: 55
E.O.W: 05-17-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Battalion Chief Scott Fraser, IAFF 9th District Local 3726, Minden, Nevada. Brother Fraser, 55, passed away on May 17, 2023, from an occupational illness. Services are pending and will be posted on the IAFF website when they become available.
Brett Harris Deputy Sheriff
Age: 26
E.O.W: 05-13-2023
Deputy Sheriff Brett Harris succumbed to injuries sustained in a vehicle accident at the intersection of West Esplanade Avenue and South State Street in San Jacinto at 2:15 am.
Deputy Harris was driving west on Esplanade Avenue, responding to a call for service, when his patrol SUV collided with another vehicle traveling north on South State Street. His vehicle was struck on the driver's side and then left the roadway and hit a light pole. Another deputy was injured while trying to help free Deputy Harris from the vehicle.
He was transported to a local hospital where he was kept on life support until his organs were donated.
Deputy Harris was assigned to the Hemet Station. He is survived by his wife, parents, twin sister, and brother.
Joshua Lee Clouse Sergeant
Age: 39
E.O.W: 05-11-2023
Sergeant Josh Clouse was shot and killed by a subject in the 500 block of E 7th Street as he and other officers executed a search warrant. The subject inside of the home was wanted for shooting his wife during a domestic violence incident earlier in the night. The wounded woman was able to walk to a neighbor's home and call the police. Responding officers secured the subject's residence and obtained a search warrant to take him into custody. As officers with the Cameron Police Department and several neighboring agencies attempted to execute the warrant, the man opened fire, fatally wounding Sergeant Clouse. Other officers returned fire and killed the subject.
Sergeant Clouse was a U.S. Army veteran and previously served with the Milam County Sheriff's Department. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Kimberly Sickafoose Port Police Officer
Age: 0
E.O.W: 05-11-2023
Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose drowned after her patrol truck drove into the Mobile River in the area of 900 Alabama State Docks Boulevard while she was on patrol at about 2:40 am.
The truck sank into approximately 40 feet of water. Officer Sickafoose's body was recovered at about 8:00 am.
Officer Sickafoose had served with the Alabama Port Authority Police Department for seven years and had previously served as the police chief of the Silverhill Police Department.
Aréanah M. Preston Police Officer
Age: 24
E.O.W: 05-06-2023
Police Officer Aréanah Preston was shot and killed during an attempted robbery at 8157 South Blackstone Avenue in Chicago at about 1:40 am. She had finished her shift and was returning home when armed subjects confronted her, attempting to rob her. She was able to draw her weapon and exchanged shots with multiple subjects before being mortally wounded. The subjects stole her gun and fled the scene.
An officer who was responding to a nearby crash discovered Officer Preston on the ground. The officer rendered aid and transported her to a local hospital in a patrol car.
Five suspects, including one juvenile, were arrested the following day. Four of the subjects were charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, arson, burglary, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.
Officer Preston had served with the Chicago Police Department for 2-1/2 years and was assigned to the Fifth District. She is survived by her mother, father, and twin sibling.
Robert Shisler Police Officer
Age: 27
E.O.W: 05-07-2023
Police Officer Bobby Shisler succumbed to complications of a gunshot wound sustained on March 10th, 2023, while struggling with a suspect following a foot pursuit. He had conducted a subject stop on the man on Delsea Drive. The man fled on foot during the encounter, and Officer Shisler chased him to Doman Avenue, where a struggle ensued between the two. The man produced a handgun and shot Officer Shisler in the leg. Despite being wounded, Officer Shisler returned fire and killed the subject.
Officer Shisler was taken to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital where he underwent multiple surgeries. He succumbed to complications of the gunshot wound on May 7th, 2023, without having ever been released from the hospital.
Officer Shisler had served with the Deptford Township Police Department for four years. His father and brother also serve in law enforcement.
Kaitie Leising KAITIE LEISING
Age: 29
E.O.W: 05-06-2023
Deputy Sheriff Kaitie Leising was shot and killed while investigating a single-vehicle crash involving a drunk driver near the intersection of Route 128 and County Road G, south of Glenwood City.
She had been speaking with the driver for approximately eight minutes and requested that he consent to field sobriety tests. The man suddenly produced a handgun and opened fire on Deputy Leising. Despite being mortally wounded, she returned fire but did not strike the subject.
The man ran into nearby woods where he committed suicide approximately one hour later after other deputies spotted him.
Deputy Leising had served with the St. Croix County Sheriff's Office for one year and previously served with the Pennington County Sheriff's Office (South Dakota) for two years.
Nicholas Georgeadis Senior Investigator
Age: 52
E.O.W: 04-28-2023
Senior Investigator Nick Georgeadis died as the result of cancer that he developed following his assignment to the search and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site following the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks.
Investigator Georgeadis was a United States Army National Guard veteran and had served with the New York State Police for 21 years, assigned to the Special Investigations Unit and New York State Homeland Security. He is survived by his wife, two sons, daughter, father, sister, nieces, and nephews.
Asson Hacker Deputy Sheriff
Age: 33
E.O.W: 03-02-2023
Deputy Sheriff Asson Hacker died as the result of exertional sickling and sickle cell trait while participating in defensive tactics training at the Southwestern Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in Evansville. He began to feel ill while undergoing the training and was transported to a local hospital where he passed away. Deputy Hacker had only served with the Vanderburgh County Sheriff's Office for several months. He is survived by his wife, four sons, parents, three brothers, and two sisters.
Fred Fedeler Firefighter
Age: 67
E.O.W: 04-27-2023
On Saturday, April 22, 2023, Firefighter Fred Fedeler was at the scene of an agricultural facility fire when he suffered a medical emergency. He was immediately treated at the scene and then rushed to the Madison Regional Health System. He passed away a short time later from an apparent heart attack.
Roy Sewell Captain
Age: 27
E.O.W: 04-24-2023
On Monday, April 24, 2023, Captain Roy Sewell was responding to an EMS call and to set up a landing zone. While en route, the apparatus he was driving left the roadway and rolled down a steep embankment. Captain Sewell was fatally injured and was declared deceased at the scene.
Patrick J. Hogan Investigator
Age: 61
E.O.W: 04-13-2023
Investigator Patrick Hogan died as the result of cancer that he developed following his assignment to the search and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site following the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks. Investigator Hogan was a United States Marine Corps Persian Gulf War veteran and served with the New York State Police for 22 years. He is survived by his wife, three children, three brothers, and a sister.
Joseph Johnson
Age: 43
E.O.W: 04-15-2023
Reserve Corporal Joseph Johnson was shot and killed near the intersection of North Third Street and Locust Avenue while making a traffic stop at about 8:20 pm. He was responding to reports of a violent man damaging property at a home and threatening its occupants. During the response, he encountered the suspect driving away and conducted a traffic stop. The subject immediately exited his car and opened fire, fatally wounding Reserve Corporal Johnson before he had a chance to return fire. The subject abandoned his vehicle, fled the scene, and was arrested two days later. Reserve Corporal Johnson had served with the Nyssa Police Department for almost five years. He had also served as a corrections officer with the Oregon Department of Corrections for 15 years and currently worked as a civilian employee for the agency. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Josh Owen
Age: 44
E.O.W: 04-15-2023
Deputy Sheriff Josh Owen was shot and killed while he and another deputy attempted to arrest a man for domestic violence in the 400 block of Stromen Street in Cyrus at about 7:30 pm. Deputies, as well as police officers from the Glenwood Police Department and Starbuck Police Department, had been dispatched to the house for reports of a domestic violence incident. The officers were attempting to place the man into custody when he opened fire on them. Deputy Owen and the subject were both fatally wounded. The other deputy and the Starbuck officer were injured. The incident occurred on Deputy Owen's 44th birthday. Deputy Owen was a Minnesota National Guard Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran and had served with the Pope County Sheriff's Office for almost 12 years. He is survived by his wife, son, and parents. His father is a retired law enforcement officer.
Trevor Abney Senior Police Officer
Age: 34
E.O.W: 04-09-2023
Senior Police Officer Trevor Abney succumbed to complications from a gunshot wound sustained on October 30th, 2020. He and his partner were stopped at the intersection of St. Philip Street and Royal Street when a passenger in a passing pedicab opened fire on them without provocation. Officer Abney was struck in the left side of his face, and his partner suffered cuts to his arm from the shattered windshield. The subject was apprehended after a foot chase through the French Quarter. He was charged with two counts of attempted murder of a police officer following the initial shooting. Officer Abney was transported to the University Medical Center New Orleans where life-saving measures were performed. Doctors were unable to remove the bullet, which remained lodged in his brain and blinded him in the left eye. He succumbed to complications of the wound on April 9th, 2023. Officer Abney was a United States Army Iraq War veteran and had served with the New Orleans Police Department for seven years. He is survived by his wife and parents.
Horace Dan Wright
Age: 66
E.O.W: 04-21-2023
On Friday, April 21, 2023, multiple fire and rescue stations from Frederick County, Virginia and Hampshire County, West Virginia responded to a wildland fire in Frederick County. The wildland fire burned several acres of brush and woods with total incident duration lasting approximately 7 hours. Deputy Chief Chester Taylor Lauck was the operator of the ultra-terrain vehicle (UTV) and performed firefighting operations, to include extinguishment with a hose line and applying a fire line. Approximately 2 hours after arriving home, Deputy Chief Lauck began to feel ill and 911 was immediately called. He was then transported to a heart specialty center where he was treated. During this time, he suffered multiple heart attacks and was put on life support. After additional diagnostic testing, the family decided to stop all life support. Deputy Chief Lauck passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023.
Horace Dan Wright
Age: 71
E.O.W: 04-14-2023
On Friday, April 14, 2023, the Abbott Volunteer Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle crash on Interstate Highway 35. Upon arriving on scene, it was determined to be a stranded vehicle, but the fire department stayed on scene for traffic control until the wrecker arrived. As Abbott firefighters were repositioning the apparatus, Firefighter Horace Dan Wright, who was assisting with the repositioning, fell and then was struck by the fire apparatus. Firefighters immediately rendered emergency medical care and called for additional emergency services to assist with the incident. Firefighter Wright was flown to Hillcrest Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Emily Ann Breidenbach Police Officer
Age: 32
E.O.W: 04-08-2023
Police Officer Emily Breidenbach and Police Officer Hunter Scheel of the Cameron Police Department were shot and killed during a traffic stop at Wisconsin Highway SS and 13th Avenue in the Village of Cameron at 3:38 pm. Officer Breidenbach and Officer Scheel pulled over a vehicle for a warrant and welfare check on the driver. The subject was armed, and gunfire was exchanged. Officer Breidenbach and Officer Scheel succumbed to their wounds at the scene. The subject was transported to the hospital where he died. Officer Breidenbach had served with the Chetek Police Department for over four years and previously served with the Stoughton Police Department. She is survived by her parents, brother, her fiancé, and his four children. Her father was the Chief of Police for the Pardeeville Police Department.
Hunter Timothy Scheel Police Officer
Age: 23
E.O.W: 04-08-2023
Police Officer Hunter Scheel and Police Officer Emily Breidenbach of the Chetek Police Department were shot and killed during a traffic stop at Wisconsin Highway SS and 13th Avenue in the Village of Cameron at 3:38 pm. Officer Scheel and Officer Breidenbach pulled over a vehicle for a warrant and welfare check on the driver. The subject was armed, and gunfire was exchanged. Officer Scheel and Officer Breidenbach succumbed to their wounds at the scene. The subject was transported to the hospital where he died. Officer Scheel was a United States Army National Guard veteran and served with the Cameron Police Department for one year. He is survived by his mother, stepfather, father, and three sisters.
Jan Tchoryk Lieutenant
Age: 55
E.O.W: 04-05-2023
On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, the Chicago Fire Department responded to a fire at a high-rise building on Lake Shore Drive. While heading down the stairway departing the fire floor, Lieutenant Jan Tchoryk collapsed. He was immediately treated by crews on the scene and transported to the hospital where he passed away a short time later. The cause of death has yet to be determined.
Jermaine A. Pelt Firefighter/EMT
Age: 49
E.O.W: 04-04-2023
On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, the Chicago Fire Department responded to a residential fire at 120th and Wallace Street. During the fire attack, at approximately 4:00 a.m., a mayday was called. Firefighter/EMT Jermaine A. Pelt was located by his hose line at about 4:10 a.m. He was immediately transported to the hospital where he passed away a short time later. Two other firefighters were also injured and are listed in stable condition. The fire is believed to have started in the attic of the home, which spread to its two neighboring buildings. The cause of death for Firefighter/EMT Pelt has yet to be determined.
Nicholas Pepper Detective Sergeant
Age: 44
E.O.W: 04-02-2023
Detective Sergeant Nick Pepper was killed when his vehicle was intentionally rammed by a suspect during a vehicle pursuit on Louisiana Highway 1, near Kleinpeter Road, in Thibodaux at about 4:00 am.
Deputies were assisting the Houma Police Department after officers attempted to stop the vehicle for a traffic violation. Officers and deputies pursued the vehicle until it stopped near Lafourche Crossing. As officers issued commands to the subject, the man suddenly accelerated and intentionally drove into Sergeant Pepper's car. Sergeant Pepper was transported to Thibodaux Regional Health System where he succumbed to his injuries. The subject was arrested and charged. Sergeant Pepper had served with the Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office for 15-1/2 years and had served in law enforcement for 24 years. He had previously served with the Houma Police Department and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and son.
Tim Unwin Police Officer
Age: 31
E.O.W: 03-31-2023
Police Officer Tim Unwin was killed in a vehicle crash at the intersection of Hamilton Avenue and Centerridge Avenue in North College Hill. He was responding to an "officer needs assistance" call when his patrol car collided with another vehicle shortly after midnight. Officers from multiple jurisdictions were responding to the call when the crash occurred. The driver of the other vehicle was also killed in the crash.
Officer Unwin had served with the Springfield Township Police Department for two years and had previously served with the Hamilton Police Department for two years.
Garrett Crumby Police Officer
Age: 36
E.O.W: 03-28-2023
Police Officer Garrett Crumby was shot and killed while responding to a shots fired call at the 4600 block of Governors House Drive at 4:45 pm. A female called 911 and reported that she had been shot. When Officer Crumby and another officer responded, they were ambushed by the subject.
Both officers were transported to Huntsville Hospital where Officer Crumby succumbed to his wounds. The other officer remains in critical condition. The subject was taken into custody and charged with capital murder of a law enforcement officer.
Officer Crumby had served with the Huntsville Police Department for three years and previously served with the Tuscaloosa Police Department for eight years. He is survived by his wife, mother, father, and three sisters.
Scotty Canezaro Corporal
Age: 38
E.O.W: 03-26-2023
Corporal Scotty Canezaro and Sergeant David Poirrier were killed in a helicopter crash in a field off North Winterville Road, near U.S. 190 at Erwinville, at about 2:26 pm. The crew of the Robinson R-44 helicopter was sent to assist in the pursuit of a fleeing vehicle around 2 am. While in flight, the helicopter's tail rotor struck a tree before crashing into a field. Corporal Canezaro had served with the Baton Rouge Police Department for 16 years and was assigned to the Air Support Unit.
DAVID POIRRIER Sergeant
Age: 47
E.O.W: 03-26-2023
Sergeant David Poirrier and Corporal Scotty Canezaro were killed in a helicopter crash in a field off North Winterville Road, near U.S. 190 at Erwinville, at about 2:26 pm.
The crew of the Robinson R-44 helicopter was sent to assist in the pursuit of a fleeing vehicle around 2 am. While in flight, the helicopter's tail rotor struck a tree before crashing into a field.
Sergeant Poirrier had served with the Baton Rouge Police Department for 17 years and was assigned to the Air Support Unit.
Chief Minton "Butch" Beach
Age: 68
E.O.W: 03-22-2023
Oak City Volunteer Fire Department, Oak City, North Carolina
Monday, March 13, 2023, Chief Minton “Butch” Beach was attending fire department mandated training at the station. During the training, he starting to feel ill and returned home. A while later, fire department members checked on him and he was still feeling poorly. He was transported to the hospital where he remained until his passing on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 from an apparent heart attack.
Jeff M. Pfeiffer Firefighter
Age: 66
E.O.W: 03-24-2023
Deptford, New Jersey
Thursday, March 23, 2023, Firefighter Jeff M. Pfeiffer responded to a smoke investigation at the intersection in the town of Deptford. No fire or smoke was found. On the return trip, Firefighter Pfeiffer began to cough. As firefighters arrived at the fire station, the coughing became more aggressive and he began to experience shortness of breath. He had suffered a heart attack. Firefighter Pfeiffer then became unresponsive. He was immediately transported to the hospital where he remained in critical condition. The next day, Friday, March 24, 2023, there was no sign of brain activity and the family made a decision to take him off of life support. Firefighter Jeff M. Pfeiffer was an organ donor and was also the past chief of the department.
Jeremy McCain Deputy Sheriff
Age: 36
E.O.W: 03-20-2023
Deputy Sheriff Jeremy McCain succumbed to injuries received when his patrol car struck a gate at the Oklahoma Christian School at 4680 E 2nd Street in Edmund at 6:50 pm. He was leaving the school campus when his patrol vehicle struck a partially opened gate while driving less than 10 miles per hour. The gate crashed through his front windshield and pinned him in the vehicle. He was transported to OU Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries 10 days later. Deputy McCain had served with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office for 11 years. He is survived by his son.
Joseph Barlow Patrolman
Age: 25
E.O.W: 03-20-2023
Patrolman Joseph Barlow succumbed to injuries received on March 17th, 2023, when he was struck head-on while escorting a funeral procession for a member of his department who had passed away.
The procession was traveling on Highway 75, near 151st Street S in Glenpool, when the pickup truck crossed the center line and struck his patrol car head-on. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries three days later. The driver of the truck was arrested and charged with causing an accident without carrying a driver’s license, reckless driving, and causing great bodily injury. First-degree manslaughter was charged after Patrolman Barlow passed away. Patrolman Barlow was United States Army veteran.
William “Bill” Fore Engineer/EMT
Age: 38
E.O.W: 03-09-2023
On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, Engineer/EMT William “Bill” Fore was on-duty at the fire station. Fellow firefighters noticed that he missed roll-call at 7:45 a.m. They discovered him severely injured from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to the Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, TX, where he passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2023.
Joseph Mckee Lieutenant
Age: 50
E.O.W: 03-14-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Lieutenant Joseph D. Mckee, IAFF 14th District Local 4066, Irondale, Alabama. Brother McKee, 50, passed away on March 12, 2023, after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Mason Griffith Detective Sergeant
Age: 0
E.O.W: 03-12-2023
Detective Sergeant Mason Griffith was shot and killed at Casey's Convenience Store at 811 Market Street in Hermann around 9:30 pm. Sergeant Griffith and another officer were responding to a disturbance at a convenience store. When the officers arrived, a shootout occurred. Both officers were shot. One officer is in serious but stable condition. Sergeant Griffith succumbed to his injuries at Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur.
The subject shot both officers and fled the scene. He has a long history of criminal charges, and there is a warrant for his arrest for not showing up to court in 2022. He barricaded himself in a home near the shooting and was taken into custody the next day at 2 pm by the Missouri Highway Patrol SWAT team.
Sergeant Mason also served as the part-time Chief of Police of the Rosebud Police Department. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
Rocky S. Wood Forest Technician
Age: 54
E.O.W: 03-09-2023
On Thursday, March 9, 2023, Forest Technician Rocky S. Wood was at the scene of a 15-acre wildfire in Buchanan County. He was scouting the area to determine where to create a containment line around the perimeter of the fire when the ATV he was driving overturned. Forest Technician Wood died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the accident. He was also the Fire Chief of the Haysi Volunteer Fire Department in Virginia.
James R. Bailey Master Trooper
Age: 50
E.O.W: 03-03-2023
Master Trooper James Bailey was struck and killed by a fleeing vehicle on I-69, south of Auburn, while attempting to deploy spike strips at about 4:30 pm. Trooper Bailey was performing traffic control duties as the result of several crashes on the interstate when he was notified of a vehicle pursuit involving the Fort Wayne Police Department. The pursuit entered on I-69 toward Trooper Bailey's location. The fleeing vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and struck Trooper Bailey as he attempted to deploy spike strips near mile marker 326. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver who struck him was arrested and charged with resisting law enforcement causing death to a law enforcement officer. Trooper Bailey had served with the Indiana State Police for 15-1/2 years. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Andres Vasquez Lasso Police Officer
Age: 32
E.O.W: 03-01-2023
Police Officer Andres Vasquez Lasso was shot and killed while responding to a domestic incident at 4:45 pm in the 5200 block of South Spaulding Avenue in the Gage Park neighborhood.
Officers were responding to a call about a man chasing a woman down the street with a gun. One group of officers went to the residence while other officers located the subject on foot. They were able to engage with the subject, but he fled from the officers. Shots were exchanged as Officer Vasquez Lasso pursued the subject, and both were wounded. Officer Vasquez Lasso was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. The subject was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Officer Vasquez Lasso had served with the Chicago Police Department for five years and was assigned to the Eighth District. He is survived by his wife, mother, and sister.
Jason Arno.........Firefighter
Age: 37
E.O.W: 03-01-2023
On Wednesday, March 1, 2023, Firefighter Jason Arno responded to a structure fire at the DC Theatricks Commercial Building on Main ST. While fighting the fire, there was a sudden blast that sent flames and smoke into the street. The fireball was caused by a backdraft. The situation quickly deteriorated and firefighters had to evacuate the collapsing interior. Firefighter Arno was reported missing shortly after. He became trapped and a Mayday was called. Firefighter Arno was found deceased in the building a short time later.
James L. Varin Battalion Chief
Age: 52
E.O.W: 02-27-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Battalion Chief James L. Varin, IAFF 3rd District Local 799, Providence, Rhode Island. Brother Varin, 52, passed away on Feb. 27, 2023, after succumbing to occupational cancer.
Michael Smith Fire Fighter
Age: 47
E.O.W: 02-26-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Michael C. Smith, IAFF 4th District Local 293, Erie, Pennsylvania. Brother Smith, 47, passed away on February 26, 2023, after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Taylor Bass......... Fire Inspector
Age: 40
E.O.W: 02-23-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Fire Inspector Taylor E. Bass, IAFF 14th District Local 2455, Slidell, Louisiana. Brother Bass, 40, passed away on February 23, 2023, after suffering a medical emergency.
Ricky Hill Engineer/Firefighter
Age: 49
E.O.W: 02-25-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Firefighter/Engineer Rickey A. Hill, IAFF 8th District Local 352, Flint, Michigan. Brother Hill, 49, passed away on Feb. 25, 2023, after suffering a medical emergency.
Brian R. Hricik Deputy Chief
Age: 0
E.O.W: 02-23-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Deputy Chief Brian R. Hricik, IAFF 4th District Local 2141, Alexandria, Virginia. Brother Hricik passed away on Feb. 23, 2023, after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Paul Cloutier Firefighter
Age: 52
E.O.W: 02-22-2023
It is with deep regret that Chief Brian Hickey announces the untimely death of Firefighter Paul Cloutier, Paul passed away suddenly as he was preparing to respond to an emergency call yesterday.
Firefighter Paul Cloutier, age 52, was appointed to Webster Fire/Rescue in March 2021 and was assigned to Group 1. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for the Muddy Brook Fire Department in Woodstock, Connecticut, where he lived.
Jay Miller Correctional Officer
Age: 52
E.O.W: 02-11-2023
Correctional Officer Jay Miller died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 while assigned to the Washington Corrections Center for Women at 9601 Bujacich Road in Gig Harbor.
Officer Miller was a United States Army veteran and had served with the Washington State Department of Corrections for 31 years. He is survived by his three sons.
Kenneth Fowler Detention Officer
Age: 52
E.O.W: 02-19-2023
Detention Officer Kenneth Fowler succumbed to injuries sustained on January 31st, 2023, when he slipped on ice in the parking lot of the Pontotoc County Justice Center. The area was experiencing an ice storm when he fell. He was transported to a hospital in Oklahoma City suffering from head injuries and hypothermia. He remained in a medically induced coma until succumbing to his injuries on February 19th, 2023. Officer Fowler had served with the Pontotoc County Sheriff's Office for five years.
Christopher Fitzgerald Police Officer
Age: 31
E.O.W: 02-18-2023
Police Officer Chris Fitzgerald was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a robbery suspect near 1700 W Montgomery Street in Philadelphia at about 7:30 pm. The subject shot Officer Fitzgerald in the head and then attempted to steal his duty weapon, belongings, and patrol car. Officer Fitzgerald was transported to Temple University Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. The man who shot him was arrested at his home in Bucks County early the next morning. He was charged with the murder of a law enforcement officer, robbery, carjacking, and several other offenses. Officer Fitzgerald had served with the Temple University Police Department for two years.
Geoffrey Redd Police Officer
Age: 49
E.O.W: 02-18-2023
Police Officer Geoffrey Redd succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained two weeks earlier while responding to a suspicious person call at the Poplar-White Station Library at 5094 Poplar Avenue.
Officers, including Officer Redd, had responded to a nearby business regarding a trespasser. Approximately 30 minutes later the subject became engaged in an altercation with a citizen inside of the Poplar-White Station Library. As Officer Redd and another officer attempted to contact the subject outside of the library the man produced a handgun and opened fire on them. Officer Redd was shot and critically wounded before the other officer returned fire and killed the subject. Officer Redd was transported to Regional One Hospital and remained in critical condition until succumbing to his wounds on February 18th, 2023. Several years prior to being shot, Officer Redd had been critically injured when he was struck by a vehicle while on duty. He returned to duty following an extensive recovery period. Officer Redd had served with the Memphis Police Department for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, and four grandchildren.
James Muhlbauer Police Officer
Age: 0
E.O.W: 02-15-2023
Police Officer Jim Muhlbauer and K9 Champ were killed in a vehicle crash at 10:15 pm at the intersection of East Truman Road and Benton Boulevard in Kansas City.
A vehicle crashed into Officer Mulbauer and K9 Champ while in their patrol vehicle. A pedestrian was also hit. K9 Champ and the pedestrian died at the scene. Officer Muhlbauer was taken to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver that hit the police car was also injured and is in police custody pending investigation. Officer Muhlbauer had served with the Kansas City Police Department for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and child.
Julian Becerra Police Officer
Age: 0
E.O.W: 02-11-2023
Police Officer Julian Becerra succumbed to injuries sustained nine days earlier when he fell from an overpass in Colorado Springs during a vehicle pursuit of carjacking suspects. The suspects had been pursued by multiple agencies over the course of several hours. At about 7:15 pm they attempted to carjack a second vehicle at the Love's Travel Plaza in Fountain and led officers on another pursuit toward Colorado Springs. The vehicle was partially disabled after stop sticks were deployed as it exited I-25 to South Academy Boulevard. The vehicle was stopped just east of Hartford Street and all three occupants fled on foot with officers in pursuit. Officer Becerra was chasing one of the suspects when he fell from an overpass to the pavement approximately 40 feet below. He was transported to a local hospital where he remained until succumbing to his injuries on February 11th, 2023. All three suspects were apprehended.
Officer Becerra was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He had served with the Fountain Police Department for 4-1/2 years and was assigned to the Canine Unit. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Tre’ Evans-Dumaran Firefighter
Age: 24
E.O.W: 02-04-2023
County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety, Kahului, HI
On Friday, Jan. 27, 2023, Firefighter Tre’ Evans-Dumaran, while assisting public safety employees, was swept into a storm drain by powerful floodwaters. He was dragged over 800 feet through the drain where it exited into the ocean. He was rescued by his crew, who immediately began resuscitation efforts. Firefighter Evans-Dumaran regained a pulse and was transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center where he remained in the critical care unit until his passing on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023.
CHARLES HERRING Police Officer
Age: 54
E.O.W: 02-09-2023
Police Officer Charlie Herring was killed in a motorcycle crash near the intersection of 184th Avenue and Sheridan Street. He was on routine patrol when a falling piece of a tree fell and struck him. The impact caused him to fall from his motorcycle. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Officer Herring was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Pembroke Pines Police Department for 21 years. He had previously served with the Starke Police Department for three years. He is survived by his three children.
Craig Saris Fire Fighter
Age: 52
E.O.W: 02-06-2023
Norwalk, Connecticut...
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Craig A. Saris, IAFF 3rd District Local 830, Norwalk, Connecticut. Brother Saris, 52, passed away on February 6, 2023, after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Andrew W. Jefferies FireFighter
Age: 40
E.O.W: 02-07-2023
Galveston, Texas....
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Andrew W. Jefferies, IAFF 11th District Local 571, Galveston, Texas. Brother Jefferies, 40, passed away on February 7, 2023, after suffering a medical emergency.
Peter E.C. Jerving Police Officer
Age: 37
E.O.W: 02-07-2023
Police Officer Peter Jerving was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a robbery suspect at 1:16 am near the 2700 block of South 14th Street.
Officers were looking for a robbery suspect who had just robbed an apartment building. When they approached the subject, he fled from the officers. One officer caught the subject, and a struggle ensued. The subject fired his handgun, and it struck Officer Jerving who was running to the scene to help. Officer Jerving was able to return fire and kill the subject.
Officer Jerving was transported to Froedtert Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
The subject had been sentenced to probation for two hit-and-run crashes the day before.
Officer Jerving has served with the Milwaukee Police Department for four years, assigned to Police District 4. He is survived by his parents, six siblings, and a long-time girlfriend.
SEAN SLUGANSKI Police Officer
Age: 32
E.O.W: 02-06-2023
Police Officer Sean Sluganski was shot and killed while responding to a domestic situation at the 1300 block of Grandview Avenue in McKeesport.
The subject's mother called 911 reporting that her son was having a PTSD episode and was being aggressive. Officer Sluganski and another officer arrived on the scene and attempted to contact the man as he walked away. The subject produced a handgun and opened fire, wounding both officers. The subject was shot in the leg by return gunfire and then fled to a nearby convenience where he exchanged shots with a third officer before being taken into custody.
Officer Sluganski was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. The other officer was critically wounded and flown to a trauma center.
The subject was charged with criminal homicide, aggravated assault, assaulting a law enforcement officer, and criminal attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
Officer Sluganski had served with the McKeesport Police Department for two years and previously served with the Charleroi Regional Police Department. He is survived by his fiancée and infant daughter.
Brandon Norbury Firefighter/Paramedic
Age: 50
E.O.W: 02-03-2023
Gresham Fire Department - Gresham, Oregon
On Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, Firefighter/Paramedic Brandon Norbury was at the training center performing hose evolutions. Afterwards, he was pale and told his co-workers that he didn’t feel well. A short time later, he collapsed and life-saving efforts were immediately performed. He was then rushed to Portland Adventist Hospital where resuscitation efforts continued. He passed away a short time later from cardiac arrest.
Robert Scheimer Engineer
Age: 46
E.O.W: 01-29-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Driver/Engineer Robert L. Schiemer, IAFF 7th District Local 31, Tacoma, Washington. Brother Schiemer, 46, passed away on January 29, 2023 after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Richard Richardson Battalion Chief
Age: 57
E.O.W: 01-25-2023
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that we report the line-of-duty death of Battalion Chief Richard D. Richardson, IAFF 8th District Local 67, Columbus, Ohio. Brother Richardson, 57, passed away on January 25, 2023, after succumbing to an occupational cancer.
Gonzalo Carrasco Patrol Officer
Age: 24
E.O.W: 01-31-2023
Police Officer Gonzalo Carrasco was shot and killed at 11:45 am at the 2600 Block of Pine Street in Selma.
While on patrol, Officer Carrasco was stopped by a homeowner who stated that a man was on her property. When Officer Carrasco investigated, the subject fired several shots, striking Officer Carassco. The subject fled the scene.
Officer Carrasco was transported to the Community Regional Medical Center, where he succumbed to his wounds.
The subject, a felon on probation, was arrested a short time later and charged with murder, being a felon in possession of a gun and ammunition, and probation violation.
Officer Carrasco had served with the Selma Police Department for two years and was part of the Explorer Program at the Reedley Police Department. He is survived by his parents, brother, sisters, and girlfriend, who is expecting his first child.
CLARENCE "CJ" WILLIAMS Master Patrol Officer
Age: 23
E.O.W: 01-28-2023
Master Patrol Officer CJ Williams passed away after suffering a medical emergency during a foot pursuit. Officer Williams was assisting a Grady County sheriff's deputy during a traffic stop in the area of 10th Street and Robinson Avenue. The subject fled the vehicle, and the officers pursued him. During the chase, Officer Williams collapsed and was unable to be revived. Officer Williams had served with the Cairo Police Department for two
Robert "Bob" Thomas Gardner Jr Firefighter
Age: 55
E.O.W: 01-26-2023
On Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, Firefighter Robert “Bob” Thomas Gardner, Jr., was at the fire station putting apparatus and equipment back in service, following a residential structure fire call. He then returned home. Sometime in the middle of the night, he suffered an apparent heart attack and passed away.
Kevin Dailey Firefighter
Age: 72
E.O.W: 01-24-2023
An Ohio firefighter injured in a crash last year has died.
Kevin Dailey was a member of Middleport and Richland Township fire departments.
On Sept. 18, Daily was driving a fire truck returning from a call when it veered off the road and rolled over the side of the hill. He was ejected and his leg was pinned under the rig, according to WTAP.
Firefighters used airbags to lift it and pull Dailey out.
Jaqcueline Montanaro Supervisory Officer
Age: 40
E.O.W: 01-14-2023
Supervisory Officer Jackie Montanaro died from injuries she sustained while trying to rescue her daughter from a fire in Hazlet, New Jersey.
When a fire broke out around midnight, Officer Montanaro evacuated from her burning home with her husband and eight-year-old daughter. She re-entered the home in an attempt to rescue their six-year-old daughter who was still inside. Officer Montanaro was found unconscious, trapped inside with trauma to her arms and hands. She was transported to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries at 1:40 am. Her six-year-old daughter did not survive the fire.
Darnell Calhoun Deputy Sheriff
Age: 30
E.O.W: 01-13-2023
Deputy Sheriff Darnell Calhoun was shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence call in the 18500 block of Hilldale Lane in Lake Elsinore. A call-taker heard the sounds of a struggle after an occupant of the home had called to report a child custody issue at the residence. Deputy Calhoun was the first deputy to arrive on the scene and was shot. Deputy Calhoun's backup arrived and discovered him wounded in the street. The second deputy became engaged in a shootout with the subject and wounded the man. Deputy Calhoun was transported to Valley Medical Center where he succumbed to his wounds. Deputy Calhoun had served with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for 11 months and had previously served with the San Diego Police Department for two years. He is survived by his expectant wife.
Carl D. Kimball Police Officer
Age: 72
E.O.W: 01-12-2023
St. Francisville Police Department, Louisiana Officer Carl Kimball died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 while assigned to the West Feliciana Parish Hospital at 5266 Commerce Street in Saint Francisville. Officer Kimball had served with the St. Francisville Police Department for ten years and retired from the Louisiana Department of Corrections. He is survived by three sisters, someone who was like a son to him, his grandson, and his goddaughter.
Charles "Chad" Cate Fire Captain
Age: 46
E.O.W: 01-12-2023
Clallam County Fire District #3 -- Sequim, Washington On Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023, at approximately 2:25 a.m., Captain Charles “Chad” Cate returned to the fire station after responding to a fire alarm activation at a commercial building. Later, at approximately 4:00 a.m., after heading back out to the site of an earlier house fire, he texted a fellow captain and the duty chief to state that all was well at the scene. At 7:00 a.m. that same morning, he was discovered deceased in his bunk by members of his crew when they attempted to wake him. The cause of his death has yet to be determined.
Larry Peasley Fire Chief
Age: 76
E.O.W: 01-04-2023
On Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022, a structure fire was reported to the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department. The Maroa Countryside Fire Protection District was requested as mutual aid. Chief Larry Peasley arrived at the fire station and was dressing out in fire gear to respond when he collapsed and went into cardiac arrest. CPR was immediately performed and he was then rushed to the hospital where he remained until his passing on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023.
Justin Mcintire Chief of Police
Age: 46
E.O.W: 01-02-2023
Chief of Police Justin McIntire was shot and killed near the intersection of Brackenridge Avenue and Morgan Street during a foot pursuit of a wanted subject.
The man was wanted for a probation violation involving weapons and had fled from the Pennsylvania State Police during a traffic stop the previous night. He then fled on foot from Harrison Township the following morning during a traffic stop. At about 2:00 pm he was located near the border of Brackenridge Borough and Tarentum Borough and led officers on a foot pursuit for over two hours. He opened fire on officers in the 900 block of Brackenridge Avenue and again in the 800 block of 3rd Avenue in which Chief McIntire was killed and a Tarentum Borough officer was wounded.
After shooting both officers the man carjacked a vehicle and fled into the city of Pittsburgh. He fled into a wooded area following a vehicle pursuit and then opened fire on officers. He was shot and killed by return fire.
Chief McIntire had been sworn in as police chief of the Brackenridge Borough Police Department exactly four years earlier.
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