ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. — With heavy hearts, the first responder community of St. Lucie County is mourning the unexpected and tragic loss of Firefighter and Paramedic Jarius Hodge, who passed away on Tuesday, July 22, at just 25 years old.
News of his passing was shared early Wednesday by the St. Lucie County Fire Rescue Benevolent Association, and later confirmed in an official statement by the St. Lucie County Fire District, which described Hodge as a “respected member of our fire family, known for his dedication, professionalism, and the kindness he brought to every interaction.”
Hodge was on duty during his Monday shift when he began to feel unwell and was sent home. The following day, he was taken to Cleveland Clinic in Tradition, where he sadly passed away. His death has left a wave of grief and disbelief among colleagues, friends, and loved ones.
Fire Chief Jeff Lee expressed the heartbreak felt across the agency:
“He was 25 years old, a very healthy young man … with his whole life and career ahead of him. It’s just beyond words. It’s sad.”
Chief Lee went on to describe Hodge as the very definition of what a firefighter and public servant should be — selfless, compassionate, and unwavering in his service to others.
Jarius Hodge was more than just a firefighter. He was a brother, a friend, and a shining example of purpose and heart in action. His loss is not only felt within the firehouse walls but across the community he served so faithfully.
As the St. Lucie County Fire District and surrounding departments come to terms with this devastating loss, they ask the community to join them in honoring Jarius’s life and legacy — and in holding his family and fire family close in thought and prayer.
Rest easy, Firefighter Hodge. Your watch is over, but your spirit and service will never be forgotten.
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