Philadelphia firefighter dies from COVID-19

Eric Gore
Photo credit Philadelphia Fire Department
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — After a month-long battle with COVID-19, a Philadelphia firefighter has died.

Eric Gore, 48, of Engine 37 in Chestnut Hill, served for 24 years in the department. He is the first Philadelphia firefighter to die from coronavirus-related complications.

The Philadelphia Fire Department called his passing a “line-of-duty death.”

Firefighter Gore most recently served at Engine 37 in Chestnut Hill. Survivors include his brother, PFD Firefighter Lamont Gore. Funeral arrangements are pending.

— Philadelphia Fire (@PhillyFireDept) June 3, 2020

“Firefighter Gore saw many ferocious fires and incredibly dangerous situations, but he never hesitated for one second to put himself in harm’s way to save others and protect the city he loved,” said Mike Bresnan, president of the Philadelphia Firefighters' and Paramedics' Union Local 22. “That's what makes his line-of-duty death to COVID-19 so much more difficult to accept. This warrior lost his life to an enemy he couldn't see.”

Gore’s brother, Lamont, is also a Philadelphia firefighter. 

While mourning the loss, Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel also pointed out that the coronavirus is still very much in our communities.

“We are not out of this thing yet,” he said. “We are going to do everything we can to protect our members, but COVID is everyone's fight. We need everybody to be taking this seriously — even as we move into another phase — and that is the best way you can help us help you, is by wearing your mask and maintaining social distances.

“(Gore’s) family wanted me to make a point in saying that.”

The union noted its members are satisfied with the COVID-19 safety precautions taken by the fire department, including top-of-the-line personal protective equipment.

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“We couldn't be happier with the fire commissioner and the PPE he provided and the precautions taken,” added Bresnan. “You got to remember we are exposed on a daily basis prior to this, so we are well-versed in taking precautions, but this is obviously more difficult because it's unseen.”

Funeral arrangements for Gore are pending.