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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

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Brittany Hathaway

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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.

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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.