Veteran St. Louis Firefighter Lee Kraus Dies Following On-Duty Medical Emergency

ST. LOUIS, MO — The St. Louis Fire Department is in mourning following the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Lee Kraus, a respected 27-year veteran of the department, who passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2025, after suffering a medical emergency while on duty.

Kraus became unwell during his shift on Sunday, June 29, and despite immediate medical intervention, he succumbed to the emergency two days later, officials confirmed. His death marks a significant loss for the department and the wider St. Louis community, where he had devoted nearly three decades of service.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that the St. Louis Fire Department announces the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Lee Kraus,” the department said in a statement Tuesday evening. “His decades of service to the citizens of St. Louis reflect a life of dedication, sacrifice, and honor.”

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Firefighter Kraus joined the St. Louis Fire Department in the late 1990s and quickly became known for his strong work ethic, calm presence, and leadership in emergency situations. Over the years, he responded to countless fire calls, rescue missions, and hazardous incidents, earning the respect of both colleagues and residents.

Fellow firefighters describe him as a deeply committed public servant — steady under pressure, generous with his time, and a mentor to many younger firefighters in the department.

“Lee was the kind of firefighter every crew hopes for — skilled, humble, and always ready to put others first,” said Battalion Chief Marcus Ray, who worked alongside Kraus for over a decade. “His loss is devastating to all of us.”

Department and City in Mourning

Following the announcement of his death, black bunting was draped over fire stations across the city, and department vehicles have been outfitted with memorial ribbons. Flags at department facilities have been lowered in his honor.

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones offered her condolences in a statement:

“Firefighter Kraus spent nearly three decades protecting our residents with bravery and compassion. His passing is a tragic reminder of the risks our first responders face every single day. We honor his memory and his service to our city.”

The fire department has also activated peer support teams and grief counselors to assist firefighters coping with the loss of their colleague.

Funeral Arrangements Pending

At this time, funeral plans for Firefighter Kraus have not yet been announced. The department confirmed that arrangements are being made in consultation with his family and will be shared with the public once finalized. A full honors funeral is expected.

Line-of-duty deaths among firefighters are often the result of medical emergencies, including cardiac events, brought on by the physically and emotionally demanding nature of the work. The incident that led to Kraus’s medical emergency is under review as part of standard protocol.

Remembering a Hero

Lee Kraus is survived by his family and his fire service brothers and sisters, who vow to continue his legacy of service. His name will be etched among those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of others.

“Please keep his family, friends, and fellow firefighters in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” the department urged.

Firefighter Kraus’s dedication to the St. Louis community will be remembered, and his service will not be forgotten.