Captain Eric J. Balliet

While engaged in a physically strenuous nighttime training exercise at an abandoned commercial structure, Captain Balliet suddenly collapsed. Resuscitation efforts were started immediately by paramedics who were also engaged in the training.

Captain Balliet was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead from an apparent heart attack after unsuccessful exhaustive efforts to save him.

He was a 19-year veteran of the Fort Wayne Fire Department and was slated for promotion to Battalion Chief in the coming months. Additionally, he served as a Reserve Deputy with the Allen County Sheriff's Department and as a Allen County Deputy Coroner. He is a third-generation Balliet to serve with the Allen County Sheriff's Department.