Broward Sheriff's Office Firefighter-Paramedic Dies on Duty at Fort Lauderdale Airport

The 54-year-old veteran first responder suffered a medical emergency while preparing to end his shift.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:50am

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A Broward Sheriff's Office firefighter-paramedic tragically died on Easter morning after suffering a medical emergency while on duty at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Steven Lepselter, a 19-year veteran of the department, was found unresponsive in the Palm Garage at the airport and later pronounced deceased at a local hospital.

Why it matters

The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks and challenges first responders face, even during routine assignments. Lepselter's death has been felt across the Broward Sheriff's Office organization, which has highlighted his dedication to mentoring the next generation of firefighter-paramedics.

The details

Lepselter, 54, was ending his fire watch shift at the airport and preparing to head to his regular assignment in Weston when he was found unresponsive on the ground in the parking garage around 6:55 a.m. on Sunday, April 5th. Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue transported him to Broward Health Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.

  • The medical emergency occurred around 6:55 a.m. on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • Lepselter was pronounced deceased at Broward Health Medical Center.

The players

Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO)

The law enforcement agency that oversees the Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue (BSFR) department, which Lepselter served with for 19 years.

Steven Lepselter

A 54-year-old Broward Sheriff's Office firefighter-paramedic who died on duty after suffering a medical emergency at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Broward Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

The Broward Sheriff who announced Lepselter's death and said it was felt across the organization.

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What they’re saying

“The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks and challenges first responders face, even during routine assignments.”

— Broward Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony, Broward Sheriff

The takeaway

The tragic death of Firefighter-Paramedic Steven Lepselter underscores the sacrifices and dangers that first responders confront daily in service to their communities. His legacy will continue through the mentorship and training he provided to the next generation of Broward County's emergency personnel.