Trending Topics

N.M. firefighter/EMT dies after collapsing during EMS call

Brittany Hathaway, a firefighter/EMT with Cliff Gila Fire Department, Gila Regional EMS and Central Dispatch, collapsed while responding to a medical call

FR1 Affiliate images - 2026-01-26T103613.578.jpg

Brittany Hathaway

Zuni Fire & EMS/Facebook

GILA, N.M. — Brittany Hathaway, a volunteer firefighter, EMT and dispatcher who served both Cliff Gila Fire Department, Gila Regional EMS and Central Dispatch, died after collapsing during a medical call.

On social media, Hathaway was described by colleagues as devoted to her children and to the community. She was taken to a hospital in El Paso after collapsing on Jan. 22 and died there later the same day.

“Brittany was an amazing person who devoted her time to helping others,” a statement from the department said.

Department leaders asked residents to keep Hathaway’s family and friends in their thoughts and prayers, and to offer help where possible.

Hathaway’s work at Central Dispatch made her a vital link between callers in need and first responders in the field, the statement said. She also served with Gila Regional EMS. Her colleagues said her loss will be deeply felt across the community.

No additional details about the circumstances of her collapse or any services have been released.

Trending
The new Spartan engine features 600 feet of 2½-inch static load housed in a low hosebed
Los Angeles County Fire Department’s team deployed with 71 members, six canine teams and 84,000 pounds of equipment to assist alongside Virginia Task Force 1
Albuquerque Engine 5 video highlights fireground priorities, including rapid offensive operations, strategic hoseline deployment and integrating primary search with fire attack
A massive blaze at the Allentown riverfront factory spread to nearby homes, forced evacuations, prompted a shelter-in-place order and knocked out power to thousands
Company News
Bidding closes July 1 at 2 p.m. for the NASCAR champion’s “Helmet of Heroes” from the 2026 DAYTONA 500

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.