CANTON, Ohio — The Canton Fire Department is mourning the loss of firefighter/paramedic Jared Kneale, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 42.
In a Facebook post, the department announced that Kneale's death was "the result of suicide due to a post traumatic stress related illness." Canton fire officials say they received permission from Kneale's wife and children to publicly disclose that information.
"Jared's family and our members are struggling to make sense of his decision to take his own life but we have collectively agreed his passing cannot be for nothing. We MUST and we WILL make something positive come out of Jared's death. In his final moments Jared signaled to us his wishes to use his death to help bring awareness to firefighter mental health. We urge our fellow brothers and sisters to reach out to one another," the department added in its post.
Kneale began with the Canton Fire Department in 2015. He was assigned to Ladder Truck 1 in the 2nd battalion and was also a member of the department's Technical Rescue Operations Team (TROT) and "an integral part" of its radio division.
"Our members are on bended knee grieving. Words cannot describe the void his passing has left in this department," Canton fire officials added.
The Facebook post notes that among receiving notice of Kneale's death, "70-plus firefighters immediately descended upon the hospital." Department leaders say its members took great comfort in being able to say goodbye one final time and receive Jared at the funeral home."
Calling hours for Jared Kneale will take place on Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. at The Chapel, located at 1391 State Road in Wadsworth. A "Last Alarm" service and private procession will follow.
Donations to the family can be made through IAFF Local 249.
- Canton Professional Firefighters Association: PO Box 20430 Canton, OH 44701-0430
- https://www.venmo.com/u/CantonFirefighters
- https://square.link/u/NiIPDEWZ
"Our department is heartbroken but resilient. Our members are rallying around each other and exemplifying the true meaning of "brotherhood". We would like express our sincere gratitude for the outpouring of support we have received during this trying time. Jared leaves behind his wife, six children and 151 united brothers & sisters. We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers," the department added in its post. "Thank you for the outpouring of love. Take care of one another."
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, help is available 24/7 through the Suicide & Crisis lifeline by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.
