A member of the 40th Cleveland Fire Training Academy Class, Williams was performing physical training at the end of the academy’s 5th week when he suffered a medical emergency. Paramedics from both Cleveland Fire and EMS provided immediate medical care and Williams was swiftly transported to Metro Hospital, but heroic resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. We await a report from the Medical Examiner for cause of death.

 

Williams, 39, was a respected and dedicated worker with many friends including Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, who joined Safety Director Wayne Drummond, Fire Chief Anthony Luke, Firefighters Union President Jake Konys, members of Cleveland Fire and EMS, and Williams’ classmates at the hospital to pay their respects and support his family as the Cleveland Fire Honor Guard stood silent watch.

 

“I am absolutely devastated to learn about the tragic death of Symeon Williams – who is also a friend I’ve known for many years. It’s difficult to put into words how saddened I am for his family, friends, fellow cadets, and everyone else who knew how caring, selfless, and compassionate he was,” said Mayor Bibb. “He was excited to further his commitment to helping others by joining the Fire Academy and that has tragically been cut short. I will do everything I can as Mayor to ensure that his legacy is not forgotten.”

 

Though new to the Division of Fire, Williams had a history of service having previously worked for Cleveland EMS from 2008-2011, Port Control from 2014-2023, and Sanitation from 2024 until he entered the Fire Academy April 14th. It is tragic to lose someone so vibrant and close to achieving his lifelong goal of becoming a Cleveland Firefighter.

 

“Our entire Cleveland Fire Family is saddened by the loss of Cadet Williams,” said Chief Luke. “We offer our condolences to his family and will stand with them through the difficult days ahead.”

A lifelong Cleveland resident, Williams was a 2004 Graduate of John F Kennedy High School. A loving father, he is survived by Symeon Jr, 12, and Syme, 2.

 

Through the generosity of our donors, we had the honor of hand-delivering vital resources to help ease their financial hardship while mourning.