Houston firefighter dies at station after suffering medical emergency

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - A Houston firefighter died at Fire Station 27 in northeast Houston on Saturday.

Kenneth Stavinoha was performing his assigned station duties when he experienced a medical emergency and did not survive, according to Chief Sam Peña.

Mayor Sylvester Turner made the following statement Saturday night: 

"Tonight, the City is saddened to learn that Houston Fire Fighter Kenneth Stavinoha passed away suddenly while on duty at fire station 27 in northeast Houston.We are grateful for Stavinoha's service, unwavering courage as a first responder and his dedication to protecting citizens since joining HFD in January 2018. I offer my prayers and condolences. I also ask our entire city to  pray for Stavinoha's family, friends and fellow fire fighters. May the memory of Stavinoha serve as a blessing to all who loved him and to those who worked closely with him in the Houston Fire Department."

A procession is being held for Stavinoha on Monday afternoon. The Houston Police Department is providing an escort along the route from the Harris County Medical Examiner's Office to Klein Memorial Park. HFD apparatus will be stationed along the route in the city, and neighboring departments will stage along the route outside the city.