Procession for active firefighter Matthew Runte

On Dec. 8, Seattle firefighter Matt Runte died suddenly just before starting shift while on a jog in the neighborhood served by his fire station. Matt was only 44 years old, and we are all heartbroken by this tragic loss of our friend and colleague. Matt worked at Engine 25 (B-platoon) on Capitol Hill throughout most of his career, dedicating 19 years of his life to serve the residents of Seattle. Matt also led the department's Walter Kilgore Memorial Honor Guard and served on numerous committees - he was well known, and he is very loved. In the days following his death, we paid tribute to Matt's life at each location he was taken to. Thank you to the Seattle Police Department and all of our neighboring fire agencies for your support during this difficult time, and for honoring Matt. Rest easy brother, we'll take it from here.

[@tracylarson1935]

I am sadden by the news that of our everyday heroes of Seattle Fire Department has died, you will be missed but not forgotten. Rest in peace. 🖤🚒 😥

[@misfitwitch]

My condolences to his family and friends.. all of his work family and all that knew and loved him. Thank you for your service Firefighter Runte. Rest in Peace.

[@petewilliamsiv3512]

Thanks he was a good friend & fire buddy in the SFD

[@cocomac5191]

Thank you. He was the best a human can be.😪

[@leonardosoto8741]

Rest In Peace Matthew

[@elavaney6018]

What a terrible tragedy!! My condolences to his family and coworkers. Since he died prior to his shift starting, did his coworkers find his body? Did someone call in a 'man down' call and they found him? I can only imagine the emotional toil that his crew is going to be experiencing after that.

[@rickyheck6780]

His memorial says he passed away after his workout before starting work. He was also head of the honor guard...