Affton Fire Capt. James “Jim” Cova, 54, of High Ridge died on July 9, 2024.
Cova was found unresponsive at the fire district’s Firehouse 1 while on duty after completing several emergency responses during his shift, according to a post on the Affton Fire Protection District Facebook page.
The official cause of his death has not been determined, the fire district reported.
Cova had been a part of the Affton Fire Protection District for more than 23 years.
Affton interim Fire Chief Aaron Rhodes gave his condolences in the statement, saying “Captain Cova was a true hero, committed to serving our community and his family. His loss is felt deeply by all of us.”
He extended his condolences to Cova’s wife and two daughters.
The fire district will schedule a memorial service to honor Cova and his family. Details about the service will be announced soon.