Recently graduated D.C. firefighter dies in off-duty fall from building

WASHINGTON — The D.C. Fire and EMS Department announced the off-duty death of one of their newest probationary firefighters.

Probationary Firefighter Sadia D. Williams died after falling from a building on 16th Street Northeast just after 1:00 a.m. on Aug. 24. Williams was transported to a nearby hospital, where she died from her injuries.

“It is with deep sorrow that the DC Fire and EMS Department announces the tragic and unexpected loss of Probationary Firefighter Sadia D. Williams, 21 years old and a proud graduate of Cadet Class 27, who graduated on Friday, August 22, 2025,” the department stated on social media. “Probationary Firefighter Williams was soon to begin her public service at Engine Company 13, in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood.”

No foul play is suspected, but her death is under investigation.

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