Scott Deem, a six-year veteran of the San Antonio Fire Department, died May 18 in a massive fire at Ingram Square Shopping Center.
Deem, 31, received his EMT certification from the Department of Emergency Health Services at UT Health San Antonio in 2011. The city contracts with UT Health for all EMT training.
“The faculty and staff of the Department of Emergency Health Sciences extend our deepest sympathies to the Deem family,” said Lance Villers, associate professor and chair of the department. “While words can not adequately express our condolences, we hold your family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott offered “heartfelt sympathies” to the Deem family in a statement.“Those who put their lives on the line to serve others deserve our deepest respect, and we can never say thank you enough,” he said. “In the days to come, we ask that all Texans join us in sending their well wishes to those injured in this incident for a full and speedy recovery, and in keeping everyone affected by this fire in their thoughts and prayers.”
Mayor Ivy Taylor, as well as her opponent in the current mayoral election, City Council member Ron Nirenberg, expressed sympathies to the family and praised first responders.
Deem is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and two children. His wife is expecting a third child.