In memory of Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Handlin

Eric Handlin, Firefighter/Paramedic of Odessa Fire Rescue, a firefighter / EMS, died in the line of duty on September 4, 2026 in Odessa, TX.

Record

• Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic
• Department: Odessa Fire Rescue
• Location: Odessa, TX
• End of watch: September 4, 2026
• Nature of death: Cerebrovascular Accident
• Years of service: 25
• Age: 53

Circumstances

While on duty from August 20 to August 21, 2026, Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Handlin responded to six emergency calls, the last one being a reported trash fire at 12:39 a.m. on August 21. At 4:08 a.m., another emergency call came in. When Firefighter/Paramedic Handlin did not report to the apparatus floor, fellow first responders searched and found him unconscious in the station bathroom. Aid was immediately rendered. Firefighter/Paramedic Handlin was then transported to a hospital where he received additional medical care and underwent surgery. Despite these efforts, Firefighter/Paramedic Handlin passed away on September 4, 2026, from a reported stroke.

This record appears on the RESPONDin line-of-duty memorial wall, a public remembrance of first responders who died in the line of duty. Source: usfa import.