HICKORY, N.C. — Hickory firefighter Jake Bridges, 20, died Thursday morning after a medical emergency, Fire Chief Matt Hutchinson said on Friday.
“We are working with our state partner agencies to gain a better understanding of this tragedy,” Hutchinson said.
Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire at about 2 a.m.
They fought the fire and extinguished it, clearing the scene shortly before 5 a.m.
The firefighters got back to the station and at about 5:08 a.m. Bridges had a medical emergency and was taken to a local hospital where he died.
“At just 20 years old, Jake demonstrated his passion for the firefighting profession and dedication to the community,” Hutchinson said.
Bridges completed the Gaston College Fire Academy in 2022 and joined the Hickory Fire Department in June 2023 as a certified Level II Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician.
“Hickory Fire Department grieves this tragic loss and mourns with Jake’s family, friends, and the community,” the department stated in a news release on Friday. “The department thanks the community and all partner agencies and neighboring departments for their support during this difficult time.”
©2025 Cox Media Group
