CLEVELAND — A Cleveland firefighter who was with the department for nearly 30 years has died from COVID-19 complications, according to a news release from the IAFF Local 93 Firefighters Union.
The firefighter, identified as Lt. Richard A. Petras, died Saturday. He was 51 years old.
Union President Francis X. Lally, released the following statement:
"We are saddened to report the passing of our Brother, Lieutenant Richard A. Petras. Brother Petras died today after 26 years of dedicated service. In the face of this pandemic, Rich never neglected his duty and never backed down. He knew the risks, and he continued to serve - a true hero. Today, Rich succumbed to complications of COVID-19. As we offer our sincere condolences to Rich's family, we ask everyone to join us in keeping them in our thoughts and prayers. Rich, you will be missed. Rest easy Brother, we will take it from here."
A GoFundMe has been set up to support the firefighter's family. You can donate to it, here.
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