Normal Fire Department mourns loss of probationary firefighter

Posted on April 7, 2025
Normal Fire Department headquarters
(Photo courtesy: Normal Fire Dept.)

NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD) — The Normal Fire Department has announced the death of one of their probationary firefighters.

Ethan Jeffreys, 23, died Monday after a battle with a “serious illness,” according to a post on the department’s Facebook page.

“While he was only with us a short time, he had a bright and promising career ahead of him. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all that knew him in this difficult time,” the post said.

Jeffreys had graduated from the fire academy in 2023 and shortly after had fallen ill, so he was not able to complete his probationary period prior to his death, Humer said.

The post said once funeral announcements are made, they will share those details when available.

WMBD TV can be reached at [email protected].

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