Memphis Firefighter Killed in Line of Duty Remembered as Leader and Hard Worker

Memphis Firefighter Killed: On Tuesday night, July 18, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee, an alarming house fire claimed one life and injured three others, before it was later determined to have been set deliberately and authorities are looking for who committed it.

The Fire and the Rescue

Fire broke out around 11 p.m. at a home on Rile Street in Memphis. According to Memphis Fire Department reports, it quickly spread throughout the structure before four firefighters became trapped inside and became entangled within it while fighting it – prompting their commanding officer to quickly organize a rescue operation to free their colleagues.

One of the firefighters, Lieutenant Jeffrey Norman, succumbed to his injuries at the scene and was declared deceased. A 20-year veteran of the MFD who joined in September 2002. Three other firefighters suffered serious injuries and are being monitored closely by medical staff at local hospitals.

The Investigation and the Suspect

MFD’s Fire Investigation Unit collaborated with Memphis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATFFE) to conduct an investigation into the cause and origin of this fire. Their investigations concluded that it had been intentionally started by an unknown individual who fled before fire crews arrived at the scene.

The MFD is offering a reward of $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of arsonists. Anyone with knowledge should call Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH or the State Arson Hotline at 1-800-762-3017 with their tip.

The Tribute and the Legacy

MFD and the entire Memphis community are deeply saddened by the death of Lieutenant Norman, marking his 64th in line of duty death during their history. He will long be remembered as a leader who dedicated himself to serving his community with pride.

“Jeffrey was a courageous and dedicated member of our team who made the ultimate sacrifice,” stated Fire Chief Gina Sweat in her statement. “During this devastating loss, we extend our condolences to Lieutenant Norman’s family, friends, loved ones and Memphis Fire Department brothers and sisters.”

On Friday, July 21st at 11 a.m. at Hope Church in Cordova there will be a memorial service honoring Lieutenant Norman and hosted by MFD; public is welcome and live streaming can be found via their Facebook page.

Lieutenant Norman will be laid to rest with full honors at the West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery.