Cardiovascular Events Leading Cause of Firefighter Deaths in 2025

Cardiovascular events continue to be the leading cause of death of the nation’s firefighters.

Of the 76 who gave the ultimate sacrifice last year, half suffered cardiac issues with stress and overexertion as key factors, according to data compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration.

Records also show of the 42 of the 72 firefighters who died in 2024 also suffered  cardiovascular events.

The 2025 snapshot includes information about firefighters who died on duty between Jan. 5 and Dec. 13. The number may fluctuate as state fire marshals review incidents.

Of those who died, 35 were career firefighters, while 34 were volunteers. Others were paid on-call, part-time, wildland contract and part-time wildland.

The top causes of injuries included 13 vehicle collisions (including aircraft); 7 struck by incidents; 4 falls, and 2 collapses.

Research showed 75 percent of firefighters who perished were 41 and over.

Twenty-five firefighters who died were between 51 to 60 while 18 who perished were 61 and over. Fourteen who gave the ultimate sacrifice were 41 to 50; and 10 were 31 to 40.

The majority of the fatal injuries occurred between 1 and 2:59 p.m., followed by 7-8:59 p.m. Only one firefighter was killed between 7 a.m. and 8:59 and from 11 a.m. to 12:59 p.m.

April was the deadliest month (12) followed by July (10) and September (9).

Last year, Missouri lost the most firefighters – 8 – while Indiana was second with 6. Pennsylvania and New York each lost 5.

Data also showed 65.79 percent of the fatalities were related to emergency duties.

The fatalities occurred 22 times on the scene of a fire while 16 were classified as on-scene non-fire. Responding incidents claimed 14.

Among the activities being performed when the firefighter died included advancing hose lines or fire attacks, driving apparatus and personal vehicles, performing patient care, engaged in search and rescue, fitness and incident command.

Firefighters who die of certain issues within 24 hours of a response or training are classified as Hometown Heroes. There were 16 reported in 2025.