All,
We regret to inform you, from the Indiana National Guard and the Indianapolis Fire Department, of the unexpected passing of Sgt. Nathaniel J. Thomas, 34. He died Thursday while on orders at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, but not in a training event. His death is under investigation. Sgt. Thomas served his country as an infantryman and was on military leave from his civilian career to fulfill his training obligations.
Simultaneously, Thomas served the citizens of Indianapolis as a firefighter with the Indianapolis Fire Department. A member of IFD Recruit Class #86, he joined the department on Feb. 22, 2021. Assigned to Engine 9 A Shift.
Sgt. Thomas leaves behind his wife, Morgan, and their 5 children: Rilynn, Donny, Maggie, Harper, and Wiley; parents Donald and Bethanne Thomas; sister Sarah Thomas, and grandfather, Werner Koenighaus. The Indiana National Guard and the Indianapolis Fire Department are working in close partnership to carry out the Thomas family’s wishes regarding the arrangements.
2 CIVILIANS KILLED IN RESPONDING/INTERSECTION FIRE APPARATUS CRASH
A crash today between a Riverside County (CA) Fire Department engine and a sedan in Hemet killed the motorist, a 10-year-old child, and left 3 Firefighters injured. The intersection crash happened at 12:24 hours Friday — and was immediately reported by the engine crew.
The crew was responding to a vegetation/brush fire along Highway 74 at the western edge of the San Bernardino National Forest when the collision occurred. The circumstances were not immediately known, including the events that precipitated the crash. More to follow.
KTIYPs
Take Care. Be careful. Pass It On.
BillyG
The Secret List 6/5/2026-2140 Hours
