USFA LODD: Pennsylvania Firefighter On-Duty Death Notification 07.16.2019

On July 16, 2019, The North Belle Vernon Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched at 0132hrs to assist on a mutual aid residential fire. Fire Lieutenant Neil B. Cope, 46, was part of the engine crew assigned to staging in full PPE and SCBA with masks doffed. After approximately 45 minutes the crew was released by command and cleared the scene. After returning to his residence, Lieutenant Cope spoke to his wife at 0730hrs via phone. His wife then attempted to call him multiple times during the day without success.  At approximately 1600hrs his wife came home and found him not breathing and cold to the touch on the floor of the bedroom. EMS was called and Fire Lieutenant Neil B. Cope was pronounced deceased at home.  The cause and nature of death are under investigation.

Our condolences to the Cope Family & Friends, North Belle Vernon Volunteer Fire Department, and to all affected by Fire Lieutenant Neil B. Cope’s passing. 

   

To date, 27 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.)