Lafayette Fire Sergeant John Robinson, 53, Dies in Line of Duty After Medical Emergency at Station 9, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Nearly 30 Years of Heroic Service and Community Dedication
LAFAYETTE, IN — The city of Lafayette is in mourning following the sudden and heartbreaking death of Sergeant John Robinson, a 53-year-old firefighter and beloved veteran of the Lafayette Fire Department, who died in the line of duty on Monday, April 14, 2025. Robinson suffered a medical emergency while on shift at Fire Station 9 and was later pronounced dead, despite efforts to revive him.
The news has shaken the firefighting community and the city at large, as tributes continue to pour in for a man whose nearly three-decade-long career was defined by bravery, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
A Life Devoted to Service
Sergeant Robinson began his journey with the Lafayette Fire Department 29 years ago and steadily rose through the ranks to become a leader, mentor, and role model to generations of firefighters. Colleagues remember him not only as a reliable and calm presence during emergencies but as a teacher who took younger firefighters under his wing and led by example.
“He was the kind of firefighter everyone respected — not just for how he worked, but for how he lived,” said Fire Chief Brian Alkire. “John was selfless, dependable, and the embodiment of courage. We have lost a brother, and the department is deeply hurting.”
Sudden Loss Felt Across the Community
On Monday, fellow firefighters at Station 9 noticed something was wrong and immediately rendered aid when Robinson became unresponsive. Emergency personnel transported him for medical care, but tragically, he did not survive the incident. His death was ruled as resulting from a medical episode suffered while on duty.
Robinson’s death is classified as a line-of-duty death, and appropriate honors are being prepared in collaboration with the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, Supporting Heroes, the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Remembering the Man Behind the Badge
Outside of his distinguished service, John Robinson was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Melissa, and their two daughters, Ava and Reece. Friends say his family was the center of his world, and that his face lit up anytime he spoke of them.
“He gave so much to his job, but he always made time for his family,” said a close family friend. “He was the kind of husband and father you could only hope for — patient, kind, and always present.”
Honoring His Legacy
Flags across city buildings have been lowered to half-staff, and memorial bunting has been placed on Fire Station 9 in Robinson’s honor. The Lafayette Fire Department will be releasing details about public memorial services in the coming days. Residents will have opportunities to pay their respects to a man who gave so much to ensure the safety and well-being of others.
In the meantime, the community has been asked to keep the Robinson family and his fire department family in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
A Final Salute
Sergeant John Robinson will be remembered not just as a firefighter, but as a symbol of what it means to live a life of service. His legacy will live on in the lives he saved, the firefighters he mentored, and the family he loved so deeply.
Rest in peace, Sergeant Robinson. Your watch is over — but your impact endures.