Wichita Firefighter Ty Voth Tragically Dies Battling House Fire

The Wichita Fire Department is mourning the loss of 27-year-old firefighter Ty Voth, who tragically died while battling a house fire near Haysville on Thursday. Voth, a dedicated five-year veteran of the department, was known for his selflessness and unwavering commitment to putting others before himself.

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon when a passerby on the Kansas Turnpike noticed a fire at a home in the 9800 block of South Laura and promptly called 911. Fire crews from Sedgwick County, Derby, McConnell Air Force Base, and Wichita responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their efforts to control the blaze, Voth sustained critical injuries during the firefight and was later pronounced dead at AdventHealth Gordon in Calhoun, Georgia.

Addressing the media on Thursday evening, Wichita Fire Chief Tammy Snow spoke about the profound impact of Voth’s death on the department. “One of Wichita’s bravest was injured in the line of duty and he later succumbed to his injuries,” Snow said. She emphasized the inherent risks that firefighters face daily, noting their noble and selfless commitment to protecting the community. “This is a loss that weighs heavily on all of us and very deeply,” Snow added. “All of the dedicated individuals who serve our fire department do so knowing the immense risk they are undertaking. And they do it with noble, selfless regard. It doesn’t make it any easier.”

Ted Bush, president of the Wichita firefighters’ union, also addressed the media, highlighting the challenging nature of the job and the lasting impact of Voth’s death on the firefighting community. “We will never be the same after today, we won’t,” Bush said. “But the job remains the same. It’s never too hot, it’s never too cold, it’s never too late, it’s never too early. Every time you call 911, they’re going.” His words underscored the resilience and dedication of firefighters despite the tragic loss of one of their own.

Sedgwick County Fire Marshal Brad Crisp confirmed that the fire was reported shortly before 3 p.m., and crews worked quickly to control the blaze. However, details on how Voth was injured remain unclear as an investigation into the cause of the fire and the circumstances of his injuries is underway. Crisp mentioned that the business on Mississippi 589 was closed briefly due to police investigations.

The City of Wichita announced that Fire Chief Tammy Snow would be hosting a press conference at 6:30 p.m. to address the incident further. The press conference comes in the wake of Voth’s death, highlighting the ongoing investigation and the community’s grief. The department’s Facebook post described Voth as “selfless, dedicated, and always putting others before himself,” reflecting the deep loss felt by his colleagues and the broader Wichita community.

Ty Voth’s tragic passing serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that firefighters face every day. His dedication and bravery will be remembered by his colleagues, family, and the Wichita community he served so selflessly.