Firefighter dies in Missouri fall

A firefighter from the Independence Fire Department died after falling from a cliff in Boone County, Missouri.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call at Pinnacles Park, just north of Columbia, at about 10:15 a.m. Tuesday. The caller reported that a person had fallen from a cliff. Authorities located Sarah Longest at the scene after she dropped approximately 50 feet. Longest was a HAZMAT technician and was nonresponsive upon arrival. Officials declared her dead at the scene.

Longest began her role with the Independence Fire Department on March 10, 2025. She served on the department’s Peer Support Team and acted as a Good and Welfare Trustee for IAFF Local 781. She was hiking with an acquaintance when the incident occurred. Authorities stated there is no reason to believe the fall was anything other than a tragic accident.

The Independence Fire Department released a statement noting that Longest’s commitment to serving others extended beyond emergency responses. The department said her involvement in the union and peer support showed dedication to colleagues. “We extend our deepest condolences to Sarah’s family, friends, fellow firefighters and all who knew and loved her,” the statement read. “Her service, compassion and commitment to others will not be forgotten.”

The department concluded its message by thanking Longest for her service to the community. “Rest in peace, Firefighter Longest,” the statement said.