City of Huntsville mourns loss of Huntsville Fire & Rescue cadet

HUNTSVILLE – The City of Huntsville is mourning the loss of Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) cadet Bryant McGowan, 31, who died Thursday, July 28, at Huntsville Hospital.

The deceased employee, who was training to become a firefighter, was hired by the City in March 2022. McGowan became medically distressed Thursday after completing a training exercise, was immediately assisted by an on-site paramedic, and transported by ambulance to the hospital, where he later died.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.

Mayor Tommy Battle is asking the community to pray for McGowan’s family, friends and colleagues.

“We are thinking of Bryant’s loved ones during this difficult time,” he said. “Bryant was a promising cadet who had a great career ahead of him as a firefighter with Huntsville Fire & Rescue. We are grieving the loss of one of our team members and know he will be missed by many.”

HFR Chief Howard “Mac” McFarlen said the department is in touch with McGowan’s family and will provide peer support to employees.

“Our department is devastated to lose one of its own,” he said. “We will do everything in our power to ensure our employees get the support they need. Our thoughts are with Bryant’s wife and family.”

The incident is under investigation.