Bloomington Fire Dept. mourns firefighter Kyle Walder’s loss

Kyle Walder, 31. (Photo courtesy: Bloomington Fire Department)

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Bloomington Fire Department is mourning the death of a firefighter who died off duty.

Kyle Walder, 31, died after an off-duty SCUBA diving accident in Kentucky Sunday, May 4, said Captain Frank Friend.

“Firefighter Walder was a dedicated and valued member of the Bloomington Fire Department, known for his commitment to serving the community. His presence and contributions will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters and all who knew him,” he said.

Friend says that the department sends its “heartfelt condolences” to his family, loved ones and his friends.

“We are all heartbroken by the tragic loss of Firefighter Kyle Walder,” said Fire Chief Cory Matheny. “Kyle was an integral part of our fire department family, respected for his dedication and his spirit. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to support them, as a department and as a family, as we all navigate the days ahead.”

Funeral arrangements are currently pending, but Friend says they will be shared once they have been made.

WMBD TV can be reached at [email protected].

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