LAFD Battalion Chief Jerome Boyd dies after suffering medical emergency

(FOX 11/CNS) - A Los Angeles Fire Department battalion chief died today after suffering a medical emergency while driving on duty near downtown, LAFD officials said.

Battalion Chief Jerome Boyd, 55, had served more than 30 years in the department. He was assigned to the Fire Prevention Bureau's Public Safety Section.

Boyd's car rear-ended a pickup truck in the area of 17th and Los Angeles streets about 11 a.m. He was taken to a hospital by an LAFD ambulance, but attempts to save him were unsuccessful.

"I join the men and women of the LAFD in mourning Chief Boyd's sudden passing," said LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas. "It is always an unexpected tragedy to lose one of our own, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time."

An autopsy will be conducted to pinpoint the cause of death.

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