Homer, Illinois – A Homer firefighter died after suffering a medical emergency that led to a vehicle crash while returning home from the station.
According to the Homer Fire Protection District, Firefighter John Michael Cummins, 46, collapsed while driving his personal vehicle after completing work at the station. The incident occurred February 8 as Cummins was returning home following a motor vehicle accident response earlier in the day.
Officials said Cummins had complained of not feeling well while at the station but chose to leave afterward. While driving, he experienced a fatal medical emergency and crashed into three parked vehicles before his vehicle came to a stop.
A passenger in Cummins’ vehicle, identified as a fellow firefighter, was not seriously injured, according to information released by the department.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful. Cummins was pronounced dead following the crash.
The Homer Fire Protection District released a brief statement acknowledging the loss and honoring Cummins’ service, writing, “Rest easy, brother. We got it from here.”
Cummins served with the Homer Fire Protection District and was described by colleagues as a dedicated firefighter and teammate. Fire departments across the region shared condolences following the announcement of his death.
No other injuries were reported, and no additional vehicles were involved beyond the parked cars struck during the incident. Authorities have not indicated that weather or roadway conditions were factors.
The incident remains classified as a medical emergency resulting in a crash. No further details have been released at this time.
The loss is expected to be felt across the local firefighting community, including volunteers, young firefighters in training, and public safety workers who regularly staff rural emergency calls.
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