Firefighter Chip Imker, 35, was taking part in rope rescue training at the fire hall when he placed his foot in a looped rope that became twisted and spread under his weight before it gave, causing him to fall six to eight feet to the concrete floor.
He was flown to Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis after the incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m.
Imker later died as a result of his injuries.
Minnesota OSHA is currently investigating the incident.
"This doesn’t compare to anything," City Administrator Lynda Woulfe told the newspaper. "When I heard the news my heart just sank. I never want to experience another day like this."
Imker had only been a volunteer with the department for 18 months.
He also was a member of the Army National Guard and volunteered as a wrestling coach for Cambridge-Isanti Schools.
The Chip Imker Firefighter Memorial Fund has been established in his memory and donations can be sent to the Minnco Credit Union, 235 1st Avenue West, Cambridge, MN 55008. Checks should be made payable to Kristin Hill.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
