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LODD: D.C. battalion chief dies after medical emergency during stress test

Battalion Chief Keith Long had just completed a 24-hour shift when he collapsed during an annual stress test

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Fire Administration announced that District of Columbia Fire and EMS Battalion Fire Chief Keith Long, 58, died Feb. 4, 2026.

Officials said Long suffered a medical emergency while completing a required annual stress test shortly after finishing a 24-hour shift. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The cause of death has not been determined.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.