Kansas City Firefighter Dead in Apparent Suicide

KANSAS CITY — Officials report that a Kansas City firefighter was found dead near a firehouse on Wednesday morning.

The Kansas City Star says that city officials confirm that a firefighter was found deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.  Police investigating a shooting found the firefighter’s body between Fire Station No.17 and a residence next door.

The name of the firefighter has not been released.

In a statement from Mayor Sly James, City Manager Troy Schulte and Fire Chief Paul Berardi, the tragedy is difficult to understand, especially as the department is still in the wake of the deaths of two firefighters on Oct. 12.  The firehouse next to where the firefighter was discovered houses the same fire companies involved in the earlier line of duty deaths.

“Our hearts are heavy today as we stand with our Kansas City, Mo. City family, especially our Kansas City Missouri Firefighters, Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians.  This tragedy is difficult to understand. While we cannot know exactly what happened, this may be a reminder of the intense stress that our trained team of professionals endure as part of working in public safety.  On behalf of all our firefighters, we appreciate the prayers and words of support. In respect for the family and coworkers, we ask for privacy in this time of shock and grief.  We have counselors available for our employees, and we will do everything we can to assist the police with their investigation.”

Police are investigating the incident and grief counselors have been made available to employees.