DC Fire and EMS Mourns the Loss of Battalion Chief Keith T. Long

Battalion Chief Keith T. Long of the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department passed away unexpectedly on February 4, 2026, while on duty. Long, who had dedicated nearly 38 years to the department since his appointment on December 19, 1988, was serving as the Safety Battalion Chief at the time of his death. Reports indicate that he collapsed during a department function, although specific details surrounding the circumstances of his passing have not been disclosed.

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’

Keith T. Long's career in the fire service began as a union member before he ascended through the ranks to become a Battalion Chief. His extensive service included a role as an officer with the Oxon Hill Volunteer Fire Company in Prince George's County, Maryland. Long's commitment to public safety and his leadership within the department were widely recognized by his colleagues and the community.

D.C. Fire and EMS Battalion Chief Collapses, Dies on Duty

The DC Fire and EMS Department expressed deep sorrow over Long's passing, stating, “The Department regrets to announce the line-of-duty death of Battalion Fire Chief Keith T. Long.” Tributes from various city agencies and labor organizations quickly followed. The Metropolitan Police Department conveyed their condolences, stating, “MPD sends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Battalion Fire Chief Keith Long.” Similarly, the DC Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 36, remarked on Long's dedication, saying, “We are saddened to announce the LODD of Battalion Fire Chief Keith T. Long... Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who served alongside him.”

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’DC Fire and EMS Battalion Chief Keith T. Long dies in line of dutyD.C. Fire and EMS Battalion Chief Collapses, Dies on Duty

The news of Chief Long's death has resonated deeply within the community, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from various sectors. DC City Administrator Kevin Donahue also shared his sympathies, stating, “Our condolences and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Battalion Chief Keith Long.” The loss of such a veteran firefighter has left a significant impact on both the DC Fire and EMS Department and the broader community it serves.

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’D.C. Fire and EMS Battalion Chief Collapses, Dies on DutyDC Fire and EMS Battalion Chief Keith T. Long dies in line of duty

Funeral arrangements for Battalion Chief Keith T. Long are pending, as the department and community prepare to honor his legacy and service. The mourning period will likely involve tributes and memorials reflecting on his contributions to public safety and the lives he touched throughout his career.

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’

• “The Department regrets to announce the line-of-duty death of Battalion Fire Chief Keith T.” — DC Fire and EMS Department

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’

• “MPD sends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Battalion Fire Chief Keith Long, who passed away this morning in the line of duty,” — Metropolitan Police Department

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’

• “We are saddened to announce the LODD of Battalion Fire Chief Keith T. Long,” — DC Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 36

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’

• “Our condolences and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Battalion Chief Keith Long,” — Kevin Donahue, DC City Administrator

DC Fire Battalion Chief Keith Long Dies In Line Of Duty: ‘Rest Easy, Chief’