On Saturday, March 8, 2025, the Johnson County Fire Protection District (JCFPD) in Missouri experienced a profound loss with the unexpected death of Captain Vernon Collett, a dedicated firefighter who served the community for nearly three decades.
Incident Overview
At approximately 1:45 p.m. on March 8, JCFPD units were dispatched to a rapidly spreading field fire in the 600 block of NE MM Highway, near Valley City in rural Johnson County.
The blaze encompassed about half an acre upon their arrival. Captain Collett, 60, was actively engaged in extinguishing the fire line when he suddenly collapsed.
Immediate Response and Life-Saving Efforts
Fellow firefighters promptly initiated Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and administered multiple shocks using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Emergency medical teams from the Johnson County Ambulance District and LifeFlight Eagle arrived swiftly, continuing resuscitation efforts for nearly an hour. Despite their exhaustive attempts, Captain Collett was pronounced dead at the scene.
Captain Collett’s Distinguished Service
Captain Collett’s career with the JCFPD began in 1996, with all 29 years dedicated to Station 6 near Valley City. His commitment and leadership led to his promotion to Captain in January 2011.
His passing marks the first line-of-duty death in the history of the Johnson County Fire Protection District.
Community and Departmental Impact
The loss of Captain Collett has deeply affected both the fire department and the local community. Fire Chief Larry Jennings expressed profound sorrow, stating, “His passing marks an immeasurable loss for our department, his family, and the entire community he so selflessly served.”
This tragic event underscores the inherent risks firefighters face daily in their commitment to protecting others.
Support and Memorial Arrangements
In the wake of this tragedy, the Missouri Fire Service Funeral Assistance Team has been deployed to support Captain Collett’s family and colleagues.
Funeral arrangements are currently pending and will be announced once finalized. The JCFPD has established a memorial fund for those wishing to contribute; donations can be directed to the district’s headquarters at 122 W. Young Avenue, Warrensburg, MO.
The untimely death of Captain Vernon Collett serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers firefighters confront in their line of duty. His nearly three decades of unwavering service to Johnson County reflect a legacy of dedication, bravery, and community spirit.
As the community mourns this significant loss, plans are underway to honor Captain Collett’s memory and support those he leaves behind.