Retired New Haven Fire Chief, 'Legend' Mike Grant Passes Away

NEW HAVEN, CT —Retired New Haven Fire Chief Mike Grant, 70, passed away, according to a tweet from the New Haven Fire Department.

"With a heavy heart we announce the passing of a NHFD legend retired Chief Mike Grant," the department shared. "Chief Grant was a role model and mentor for so many of us and responsible for who many of us are today."

Firefighters wrote that Grant's "leadership and knowledge will have an impact on this department for generations to come."

"Chief Grant commanded an army that would run through hell for him. We did this out of respect and admiration. He has shaped this department in immeasurable ways. A true leader who gave us all a collective sigh of relief when he arrived in scene. We knew no matter how bad it was, Chief Grant would make it right. You will be sorely missed Chief. Rest In Peace and God Bless your family and the countless people who cared for you. '31 I’m on scene I’m in charge.'"

According to a news release from New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker, Grant died as a result of "complications stemming from a terminal illness."

Grant served 42 years in the New Haven Fire Department, including 11 years as fire chief. In 2013, he became a member of the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame and in 2017 he was recognized by the city with a lifetime achievement award.

Current fire chief John Alston said that Grant's name is synonymous with the New Haven fire service.

“When you think of the New Haven Fire Department and when I have traveled across this country, the name of Mike Grant is always spoken of with the deepest respect and admiration. Chief Grant made such a tremendous impact in our City and in our region,” Alston said.

Grant worked his way up from firefighter to chief, was a member of the International Association of Fire Fighters, International Association of Fire Chiefs and the International Association of Metropolitan Chiefs.

"Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go out to the Grant family, particularly his son, Lt. Patrick Grant, his nephews, Lt. Louis Oliwa and firefighter Matthew Thomas," Alston said.

"It has been a tough time for us in the department. Chief Grant was a tremendous help every step of the way, while fighting his own battle. All department flags will be lowered to half staff, in recognition of his passing and incredible contributions to the Fire Service," he said.

Here's a 2014 short film made about Grant.

Mayor Elicker called Grant a "quiet leader."

“Chief Grant was a friend and an important figure in our community. This is a tremendous loss for New Haven – particularly the brotherhood of New Haven Firefighters who have already lost so much this year,” Elicker said, noting that "like so many others like him, dedicated his life to keeping our community safe. Chief Grant was a quiet leader, always following his heart and integrity. I admired the Chief’s dedication to our City and in particular that he was a firefighter to his core. Our thoughts are with his family.”

Funeral arrangements are not yet known, expect further details in the coming days.