DeKalb County, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Master Firefighter Preston Fant, a dedicated 21-year veteran of the DeKalb County Fire Rescue, tragically lost his life while attempting a heroic rescue during a warehouse fire. This heartbreaking incident marks the first line-of-duty death for a firefighter in DeKalb County. The community mourns the loss as a GoFundMe campaign has raised significant funds to support his family, and counseling services are being offered to assist fellow firefighters in coping with this tragedy.
DeKalb County
Master Firefighter Preston Fant, a dedicated 21-year veteran of the DeKalb County Fire Rescue, tragically passed away on September 8, 2025, while heroically attempting to save a fellow firefighter during a major warehouse fire. The incident took place at the Digital Thunderdome warehouse on South Stone Mountain Lithonia Road, where Fant became trapped amidst the flames.
Firefighter Fant was gravely injured while engaging in rescue operations when he attempted to reach his colleague inside the burning structure. Once he was successfully retrieved from the fire, he was promptly transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. This incident marks a somber milestone as the first line-of-duty death for a firefighter in DeKalb County.
Master Firefighter Fant is survived by his wife, Leigh, and their five children. The community has expressed its grief and support, with DeKalb County Fire Chief Darnell Fullum describing Fant as “an extraordinary public servant” who was “beloved in the community.” Fant had received extensive training in specialized areas including swift water rescue, high-rise operations, and trench rescues, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and dedicated firefighter.
In the wake of his tragic passing, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Fant’s family, raising over $50,000 to assist them during this difficult time. Fant was known for being a devoted family man who enjoyed activities such as hunting, fishing, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves. As a mark of respect for his service, flags across DeKalb County have been ordered to be lowered to half-staff.
In response to this tragic event, counseling and support services are being offered to Fire Rescue personnel to help them cope with the loss of their respected colleague. The fire itself resulted in significant damage to the warehouse, and the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
A memorial service for Master Firefighter Preston Fant is scheduled to take place at Truist Park, which will include a public viewing and options for attendees to view the service via live-streaming. Witnesses of the fire noted a substantial response from firefighters as nearby workers observed the urgent situation, worsened by the closest fire hydrant being inoperable.
Key Points of the Incident
- Preston Fant died while trying to save a fellow firefighter.
- He had a 21-year career with DeKalb County Fire Rescue.
- More than $50,000 raised for his family.
- First line-of-duty firefighter death in DeKalb County.
- Counseling services available for Fire Rescue personnel.
Upcoming Memorial Service
The memorial service for Preston Fant will be held at Truist Park, providing an opportunity for the community to pay their respects.
Summary of Events
| Date | Event | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 8, 2025 | Preston Fant dies during a warehouse fire. | Digital Thunderdome warehouse | First line-of-duty death in DeKalb County. |
| N/A | GoFundMe campaign established for family support. | Online | Fundraising exceeded $50,000. |
| N/A | Memorial service scheduled. | Truist Park | Community tribute to Preston Fant. |
FAQ
Who was Preston Fant?
Preston Fant was a Master Firefighter with a 21-year career at DeKalb County Fire Rescue.
What happened to Preston Fant?
He died while heroically attempting to save a fellow firefighter during a warehouse fire.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident took place at the Digital Thunderdome warehouse on South Stone Mountain Lithonia Road.
How did the community respond?
A GoFundMe campaign was established for his family, raising over $50,000, and flags across DeKalb County were ordered to be lowered to half-staff.
What is being done to support firefighters after this tragedy?
Counseling and support services have been made available to Fire Rescue personnel.
When and where is the memorial service for Preston Fant?
The memorial service is scheduled to be held at Truist Park, with options for public viewing and live-streaming.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News: DeKalb Firefighter Preston Fant Funeral Memorial Service
- Wikipedia: Firefighter
- Atlanta News First: Fallen Firefighter Identified
- Google Search: DeKalb County Fire Rescue
- Fox 5 Atlanta: DeKalb County Firefighter Dies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighting
- People: Dad of 5 Served Fire Department for 21 Years
- Google News: Firefighter Line of Duty Deaths
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