Hickory Fire Department mourns the loss of Firefighter Jake Bridges

"It is with a heavy heart that I deliver the news that no fire chief ever wants to deliver. Yesterday we lost one of our own, Hickory Firefighter Jake Bridges, while on duty," states Hickory Fire Chief Matt Hutchinson.   

Hutchinson continues, "We are working with our state partner agencies to gain a better understanding of this tragedy."

Although the family and department await further details surrounding Jake’s passing, below is the information known at this time.

At approximately 1:49 a.m. Thursday, June 5, Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire. The fire was extinguished, and firefighters cleared the scene at approximately 4:52 a.m. 

After returning to their station, firefighters worked to get the truck back in service. At approximately 5:08 a.m., Firefighter Jake Bridges experienced a medical emergency and was transported to a local hospital. Despite the best efforts of his fellow firefighters, first responders, and medical personnel, sadly, Jake passed away. 

At just 20 years old, Jake demonstrated his passion for the firefighting profession and dedication to the community. After completing the Gaston College Fire Academy in 2022, he joined the Hickory Fire Department in June 2023 as a certified Level II Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). 

Hickory Fire Department grieves this tragic loss and mourns with Jake’s family, friends, and the community. The department thanks the community and all partner agencies and neighboring departments for their support during this difficult time.