Tempe fire captain dies from rare cancer at age 39
Dec 20, 2024, 9:12 AM
Tempe Fire Capt. Scott Leathem died from a rare form of cancer on Dec. 19, 2024. (Tempe Photo)
(Tempe Photo)
PHOENIX — A Tempe fire captain died Thursday from a rare cancer, the department announced. Scott Leatham was 39 years old.
Leatham is survived by his wife, Ashley, and his two children, 15-year-old Kaden and 12-year-old Kali.
“In his time with us, Scott exemplified the kind of service we strive for,” Interim Fire Chief Darrell Duty said in a press release. “He wanted a way to serve his community that was meaningful to him and I think he found that in firefighting.
“He was a dedicated public servant, a community leader and he really enjoyed making Tempe a better, safer place for everyone. We thank him and his family for his service.”
How long did Tempe fire captain serve department?
Leatham had been with the Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department since February 2013.
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He was promoted to captain paramedic in February 2022 and most recently served as the captain for E278/SQ278.
Leatham was the captain of the first fire truck on scene at the Tempe Town Lake train derailment in July 2020.
“On behalf of the entire city of Tempe, I want to extend my sincere condolences to the Leatham family,” Mayor Corey Woods said in the release. “Firefighters give their all to our community every day. They put their lives on the line. Capt. Leatham’s death is a loss for all of us.”
Leatham is the third active Tempe firefighter to die since the department was formed.
Details of a funeral service honoring Leatham have yet to be finalized.
“I first met Scott when he worked as a civilian EMT driving ambulances here in Tempe,” Greg Ruiz, interim chief deputy city manager and former fire chief, said in the release. “His dream was to be a firefighter. He saved lives and offered help to countless people in need.
“He was a positive person who made everyone feel welcomed and appreciated. I wish more people had a chance to meet him.”
