Denver Fire Technician Dies After 'Cardiac Event' While On Duty

DENVER, CO — The Denver Fire Department is mourning the loss of Jeffrey J. Billingsley, a technician who died Monday afternoon after experiencing "an apparent cardiac event" while at work.

Billingsley, 42, was taken by an ambulance to the emergency room on Monday afternoon, but he never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead at around 4 p.m., officials said.

A 19-year member of the Denver Fire Department, Billingsley was most recently assigned at Denver International Airport Fire Station #35, officials said.

Billingsley played drums at events and funerals with the Denver Fire Department Pipes and Drums Corps and was a board member of the Denver Fire Department Burn Foundation, officials said.

In 2004, he was recognized for his assistance in the rescue of three individuals from a fire.

Don't miss the latest news updates from Denver Patch: Free Newsletters and Email Alerts | Facebook | Twitter

"The entire Denver Fire Department is reeling from this loss, and we extend our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of our brother who passed-away," Fire Chief Desmond Fulton said in a statement. "We ask for privacy at this time as we deal with this terrible unexpected tragedy."

Billingsley is survived by his girlfriend, Lindsey Foster; his parents, John and Margaret Billingsley; brother Matt, sister Lisa, and nephew Henry.

More information about funeral services will be provided at a later date, officials said.