Kansas City firefighter dies after medical emergency during training exercise

A Kansas City firefighter died Tuesday after suffering a medical emergency during a drill.

The firefighter, whose identity is not publicly known, worked for 10 years as a firefighter and paramedic for the Kansas City Fire Department's Station 35 EMS division, according to a fire department press release.

The incident occurred around 11:45 a.m., according to fire officials. After other firefighters attempted to render aid, the firefighter was taken to North Kansas City Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1 p.m.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a member of the Kansas City Fire Department who served our community with courage and dedication for a decade,” Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. “Our community will forever cherish his dedication to the people of Kansas City and his love and devotion to service. My thoughts are with his family, friends and all of his brothers and sisters at KCFD.”

The city leadership is expected to speak in more detail about the firefighter's death on Wednesday.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.