Passing of Retired Deputy Chief Bruce Hedrington

It is with profound sadness that the City of Beloit Fire Department announces the passing of City of Beloit Fire Department retired Deputy Fire Chief Bruce Hedrington.

Hedrington passed away at the age of 71 on April 21, 2026. He began his fire service career as a volunteer in his hometown of South Beloit, Illinois, and later became a full-time firefighter for the City Beloit in February 1987. Bruce became a paramedic early in his career and served in several promoted positions achieving the rank of deputy chief. He retired from the City of Beloit Fire Department in December 2017.

Deputy Chief Hedrington proudly served Beloit residents along with the firefighters he worked with and later led as a leader within the department. His leadership was found in the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), where he was influential in bringing MABAS to the State of Wisconsin. Hedrington remained a leader within MABAS serving as the Southwest Regional Coordinator up to the date of his passing.

“Deputy Chief Hedrington was a respected leader with a passion for the community he served and the fire and emergency service family he led with integrity and pride,” said Interim Chief Todd Farley. “His legacy will remain within the Beloit Fire Department and our condolences go out to his family and fire department family.”