Hickory Fire Fighter, 20, Dies on Duty

Hickory --  Firefighters from Hickory were called to a structure fire at around 1:49 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

Around 4:52 a.m., firefighters cleared the area after putting out the fire. 

Firefighters went back to their station and worked to restore the truck's functionality.  

Firefighter Jake Bridges had a medical emergency at around 5:08 a.m. and was taken to a nearby hospital.  Jake died in spite of the best efforts of his fellow firemen, first responders, and medical staff. 

Jake Bridges was a dedicated member of the Hickory Fire Department, joining in June 2023. He became a certified Level II Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) after graduating from the Gaston College Fire Academy in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to the community and passion for firefighting at a young age.

Hickory Fire Department: 

“It is with a heavy heart that I deliver the news that no fire chief ever wants to deliver. Yesterday we lost one of our own, Hickory Firefighter Jake Bridges, while on duty,” states Hickory Fire Chief Matt Hutchinson.   
Hutchinson continues, “We are working with our state partner agencies to gain a better understanding of this tragedy.”
Although the family and department await further details surrounding Jake’s passing, below is the information known at this time.

At just 20 years old, Jake demonstrated his passion for the firefighting profession and dedication to the community. After completing the Gaston College Fire Academy in 2022, he joined the Hickory Fire Department in June 2023 as a certified Level II Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).  

Hickory Fire Department grieves this tragic loss and mourns with Jake’s family, friends, and the community. The department thanks the community and all partner agencies and neighboring departments for their support during this difficult time."

                                         Jake Bridges

WNCTimes

Cover Image: WNCTimes

Image Above: Hickory Fire Department