A member of the Johnson County Fire Protection District died in the line of duty Saturday, March 8.
According to JCFPD, Captain Vernon Collett was fighting a natural cover fire in the 600 block of NE MM Highway when he collapsed.
First responders from JCFPD, the Johnson County Ambulance District and Lifeflight attempted lifesaving efforts, including CPR and the utilization of an AED, for nearly an hour before he was pronounced dead.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Captain Vernon Collett, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community," Johnson County Fire Protection District Chief Larry Jennings said in a statement. "His passing marks an immeasurable loss for our department, his family, and the entire community he so selflessly served. Today is a tragic day for our District and a somber reminder of the risks our firefighters face daily.”
Collett served JCFPD for 29 years at Station 6 near Valley City. He has served as a Captain since January 2011.
This is the first line of duty death in the history of JCFPD.
Funeral arrangements are pending. Monetary contributions for the benefit of the Collett family can be made out to the Johnson County Fire Protection District and delivered to district headquarters at 122 W. Young Ave. in Warrensburg.
This is a developing story. More information will be added when it becomes available.
