Honoring a Hero: Firefighter Preston Fant's Ultimate Sacrifice in DeKalb County
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The community of DeKalb County, Georgia, is in mourning following the tragic line-of-duty death of Firefighter Preston Fant. A 21-year veteran of DeKalb County Fire Rescue, Fant made the ultimate sacrifice on Monday, September 9, 2025, while battling a commercial structure fire. His passing marks a somber moment in the department's history, as he is the first DeKalb County firefighter to die in the line of duty while actively fighting a fire [1]. This article honors his memory, detailing the incident that led to his death, his remarkable career, and the profound impact he had on his colleagues and the community.
The fatal incident occurred at a commercial structure fire located at 2569 South Stone Mountain Lithonia Road. During the intense battle against the blaze, Firefighter Fant became trapped while heroically attempting to rescue a fellow firefighter. Despite immediate efforts to extricate him from the burning structure, he sustained critical injuries. He was swiftly transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries [1]. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Firefighter Preston Fant dedicated 21 years of his life to serving the citizens of DeKalb County. He was stationed at Fire Station 24 in Stone Mountain and was widely regarded as an extraordinary public servant. DeKalb County Fire Chief Darnell Fullum lauded Fant as a highly respected and elite firefighter, highlighting his specialized training in swift water rescue, high-rise operations, and trench rescues. Chief Fullum emphasized Fant's consistent demonstration of courage, skill, and unwavering dedication throughout his more than two decades of service. Beyond his professional prowess, Fant was also remembered as a devoted family man whose kindness and humility left a lasting impression on everyone he met [1]. He leaves behind his wife and five children, a testament to his commitment both to his community and his family.
The news of Firefighter Fant's passing sent shockwaves through the DeKalb County community. CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson expressed the county’s profound sorrow, extending heartfelt condolences to the Fant family and assuring them of the full support of the DeKalb County government during this difficult time. In a gesture of respect and remembrance, flags across DeKalb County will be lowered to half-staff in Firefighter Fant’s honor. Recognizing the immense emotional toll such a loss can take, counseling and support services have been made available to Fire Rescue personnel to help them process the profound grief of losing a colleague [1]. The outpouring of support from the community underscores the deep respect and gratitude held for Firefighter Fant and all first responders.
Firefighter Preston Fant's sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers faced by firefighters every day. His dedication, bravery, and commitment to protecting his community will not be forgotten. As DeKalb County mourns the loss of a true hero, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of firefighters and serve as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on countless lives. Our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.
[1] DeKalb County Mourns the Line-of-Duty Death of Firefighter Preston Fant. (2025, September 9). DeKalb County GA. https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/dekalb-county-mourns-line-duty-death-firefighter-preston-fant