Battalion Chief Harold Pete Stephenson

Chief Stephenson and two other firefighters suffered smoke inhalation while fighting an unoccupied dwelling fire at 106 W. Fourth Street.

Chief Stephenson was transported by ambulance to a local physician's office, treated, and then transported home. Approximately 20 minutes later, the life squad was recalled to the Chief's home where he was found unconscious. The physician was called to the home and an Aurora Police unit made an emergency transport of special equipment from Dearborn County Hospital to the residence. After Approximately 90 minutes of unsuccessful resuscitation attempts, Chief Stephenson was pronounced dead. He was the first Aurora firefighter to fall in the line of duty.