USFA LODD: Illinois Firefighter On-Duty Death Notification 05.05.2019

Firefighter Kody Vanfossan, 24, responded to a multi-alarm two-story vacant structure fire in Christopher, Illinois. Upon arrival, heavy smoke could be seen coming out of the top floor of the structure. Firefighter Vanfossan, along with a second firefighter, began an interior attack on the fire. An additional firefighter later called for the two firefighters to exit the building. As the two firefighters started down steps in the rear of the building, the steps collapsed. While the second firefighter was able to make it out of the building, a Mayday was issued for Firefighter Vanfossan. Firefighter Kody Vanfossan was recovered from the building and placed into an ambulance where he was pronounced deceased. Investigation into the incident continues.

Our condolences to the Vanfossan Family & Friends, Christopher Fire Department, and to all affected by Firefighter Kody Vanfossan’s passing. 

   

To date, 15 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2019. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)