On July 18, 2023, the Memphis Fire Department received a call of a resident fire. Lieutenant Jeffrey Norman and his team rushed to the scene, fully aware of the danger they were about to face. Upon arrival, fire companies were presented with heavy fire and thick, black smoke pushing out of the structure. Lieutenant Norman took on the responsibility of communicating with the truck company inside the garage, urging them to exit the compromised structure. As firefighting efforts ensued, the garage collapsed before they could get out, trapping four firefighters inside, including Lt. Norman. The trapped firefighters were rescued and rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the injuries that Lt. Norman sustained during the collapse were severe, and in the early hours of July 19, Lt. Norman succumbed to his injuries.

Lt. Norman was a 20-year veteran of the Memphis Fire Department. Prior to that, he served with the 164th Aerial Port Squadron of the Tennessee Air National Guard for 28 years, earning the rank of master sergeant before retiring. He served multiple tours of duty overseas and in the United States, including two tours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

In 2002, he joined the Memphis Fire Department, moving up the ranks from driver to lieutenant. He was known as “Dirty Red” to his coworkers, and he received the Life Saving Medal during his tenure.

In his free time, he loved watching sporting events, especially his Arkansas Razorbacks. He also enjoyed cooking, traveling, and running, but most of all, spending time with his family. He leaves behind his wife and son.