May 11, 2009 - Shreveport Fire Department Captain Suffers a Heart Attack

U.S. Fire Administration classifies it as a Line of Duty Death

A Shreveport Fire Department Captain suffered a heart attack late Sunday evening that claimed his life. Captain Frankie Nelson, a 28 year veteran with the department, suffered what appears to be a heart attack at approximately 9:41 PM. Captain Nelson had just completed a 24-hour work shift eight hours earlier. He was transported to Schumpert Medical Center and was not able to be revived.

Captain Nelson worked as a Battalion Safety Officer for the Shreveport Fire Department. His death is considered in the line of duty based on 42 U.S.C. Chapter 46, Subchapter XII, Part A. This law states that a public safety officer who dies, as a result of a heart attack or stroke suffered not later than 24 hours after so engaging or participating in fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue, or emergency response activity is considered a LODD. This LODD will be recognized by the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation, the U.S. Department of Justice-Public Safety Officer Benefits Program, and the United States Fire Administration.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Nelson family at this time. Funeral arrangements are pending. Picture of Captain Nelson.