Hickory Firefighter Dies After On-Duty Medical Emergency

Jake Bridges, a 20-year-old firefighter and EMT with the Hickory Fire Department, died early June 5, 2025, after suffering a medical emergency upon returning to the station following an overnight fire call. Despite immediate assistance from fellow firefighters and medical personnel, Bridges was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to the hospital. The exact cause of his medical emergency remains under investigation. Bridges had joined the department in June 2023 after graduating from Gaston College Fire Academy in 2022. Fire departments from across North Carolina, including Moore County, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst, are providing relief to Hickory's department to allow staff to mourn. The Hickory community and fire department have expressed deep sorrow, extending condolences to Bridges' family and thanking neighboring agencies for their support.