Fire department cadet dies during training: ‘Caring, selfless and compassionate’

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO/Gray News) – A fire cadet in Ohio died during a training exercise earlier this month, officials said.

On May 16, Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams was performing physical training at the end of the academy’s fifth week when he suffered a medical emergency.

Cleveland Fire and EMS paramedics immediately began lifesaving measures, and Williams was rushed to the hospital. Sadly, he died. He was 39.

The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner is still working to determine the exact cause of death.

Williams’ funeral will be held Thursday.

The lifelong Cleveland resident was a 2004 graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and a member of the 40th Cleveland Fire Training Academy Class.

Williams is described as “a loving father” who leaves behind a 14-year-old and a 2-year-old.

Officials said Williams had served the city’s community for 15 years before entering the Fire Academy in April. He previously worked for Cleveland EMS, port control and sanitation.

Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb said Williams was a personal friend of his for many years.

“It’s difficult to put into words how saddened I am for his family, friends, fellow cadets, and everyone else who knew how caring, selfless, and compassionate he was,” the mayor said in a statement. “He was excited to further his commitment to helping others by joining the Fire Academy and that has tragically been cut short.”