Who is Preston Fant? Veteran DeKalb Firefighter Dies in Warehouse Blaze

On Monday, September 8, 2025, DeKalb County lost one of its bravest firefighters. Master Firefighter Preston Fant, 53, died while battling a warehouse fire in Lithonia, Georgia. He was trying to rescue a fellow firefighter when he became trapped inside the burning building.

Fant was quickly pulled out by his colleagues, who gave him first aid on the spot. He was rushed to the hospital, but sadly, he did not survive his injuries.

A Life of Service

Preston Fant served with DeKalb County Fire Rescue for 21 years. He worked at Fire Station 24 in Stone Mountain. Over the years, he trained in swift water rescue, high-rise rescue, and trench rescue. His colleagues described him as one of the most respected men in the department.

Fire Chief Darnell Fullum called Fant an “elite firefighter and a brother.” Holding back tears, he added that Fant was also a caring family man. “After every fire scene, he would ask me about my son. That showed who he really was,” the Chief said.

Family and Community in Mourning

Fant leaves behind his wife and five children. DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson spoke at a press conference and promised support for the family. “We will walk beside you. We will support you in every way possible,” she said.

She also honored Fant’s bravery, saying, “He ran toward danger when others ran away. He had the courage to do what was required.”

A County in Grief

Flags in DeKalb County are now flying at half-staff in memory of Fant. Firefighters across the county held a tribute for their fallen brother.

Fant is the first DeKalb firefighter to die in the line of duty while fighting a fire. His death comes less than a month after the county lost Police Officer David Rose in a separate tragedy.

Funeral and Support

Funeral and memorial service details have not been released yet. A GoFundMe page has been created to help Fant’s family during this difficult time.

Investigators are still looking into the cause of the warehouse fire in Lithonia.

Who is Preston Fant Wife & Family?

Firefighter Fant is the first DeKalb County firefighter to die in the line of duty while battling a fire. He leaves behind his wife and five children.