Hundreds gathered this past weekend to honor a St. Lucie County firefighter/paramedic who died last month.
Firefighter/Paramedic Jarius Hodge, 26, fell ill at work and went home. The following day, he called for help after feeling worse. He was transported to a hospital where he died, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
St. Lucie Fire Chief Jeff Lee indicated that the illness was likely caused by an exposure during his shift, WPEC reported.
"We love you. I'm going to miss you," Lee told those gathered to remember Hodge.
Hodge's brother and fellow St. Lucie County Austin, said. "I'm going to carry your legacy. It's going to go through me. It's going to go through all your brothers out here and abroad. Those holes are going to be filled."
Jarius had followed in his older brother's bootsteps, joining the department three years ago. They worked the same shift.
To date, 50 firefighters have died on duty so far this year.
