Line of Duty Deaths Database

Stephen W. Shipp
Name
Stephen W. Shipp
Local
L0036, Washington
Gender
Male
Age
47
District
04
Occupation
Driver/Operator
Type of Duty
Fire Suppression
Fatal Injury Cause
Contact/Exposure - Smoke/Toxic Fire Prod.
Nature of Fatal Injury
Cancer - Colon
Date of Death
4/15/2025
Year Placed On Wall
2026
Multiple Line of Duty Incident
No information available
Name
City/State
Date
Summary
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Biographical Comments
Firefighter/Technician Stephen William Shipp Jr. Truck Co.7, Platoon No. 4, regretfully succumbed to his job-related cancer on April 15th, 2025 at 0700 hours, just as his beloved Number 4 Platoon assumed duty. Steve was surrounded by absolute love, as family and friends sat vigil with him the last week of his beautiful life.

Stephen was a native Marylander who served 4 years in the United States Coast Guard. His military service started immediately after high school. Stephen had to initially defer beginning his career with the District of Columbia Fire Department until his military commitment was completed. On April 19th, 2004, Steve was officially appointed to the DCFD, starting his career at the DC Fire Training Academy. Upon completion of the Training Academy, he was appointed to Engine Co. 33, Platoon No.4, where he completed Probation and strived to achieve his dream spot at Truck Co.7 Platoon No. 4. Steve would go on to being promoted to the esteemed position of Truck Driver at Truck Co. 7, Platoon No.4, a job he absolutely loved.

Steve was one of a kind. He complained incessantly but would do anything asked of him, whether at work or home, to absolute perfection. This earned him the title, around his beloved firehouse, affectionately known as the "187", as “Chief Morale Officer.” Steve was also known for always pondering a creative business venture or invention to get rich. This earned him his other nickname, “The Idea Guy.” In all reality, what Steve actually was, was a great fireman and an even better friend. He would do anything for those he loved. Steve ultimately was all bark and very little bite when it was all said and done. The only thing Steve loved more than driving Truck 7 was God, followed very closely by his amazing wife Sonia, his 3 children, and 2 grandchildren.

Steve was diagnosed with cancer in early 2023. He fought this disease with everything he had and even some things he didn’t. He underwent multiple painful major surgeries and some of the most aggressive chemo treatments ever administered. His cancer was determined to be job-related, and Steve was medically retired in May of 2024. He suffered dearly through this fight, and after 2 years of battling, he was finally called home to rest in comfort. Over the last 2 years, Steve never backed down or shied away. Steve will never, ever, be forgotten by his friends and loved ones. Steve's illness and battle are not in vain, as they will help to serve as the catalyst in making it better for those in the department who may be forced to deal with similar circumstances. Steve was, and will remain, an advocate for the expansion of the occupational cancer presumptive bill. He will also continue to serve as an advocate for improvements in dealing with workplace illnesses. As expected, Steve did not go quietly into the night. He scratched, clawed, and fought to the bitter end.

Steve will be remembered as a devout follower of Jesus Christ, a dedicated husband, amazing Father, Grandfather, and hero Fireman.
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