Bristol, Tennessee, October 20, 2025
News Summary
A solemn procession honored firefighter Brandon Clawson, who tragically passed away while on duty. Colleagues and community members gathered to pay their respects, showcasing the unity among first responders and the deep impact of Clawson’s dedication to service. His legacy as a dedicated firefighter and EMT-paramedic will continue to inspire many.
Bristol, Tennessee – Firefighter Brandon Clawson Honored in Procession Following Line-of-Duty Death
A heartfelt procession took place on Friday to honor firefighter Brandon Clawson of the Bristol Tennessee Fire Department, who tragically passed away on Wednesday due to a medical emergency. The incident occurred while Clawson was on duty at the fire station, although it was clarified that the emergency was not related to any active call.
The procession began at 2 p.m. at the Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City, where Clawson’s body was transported from. The route included major thoroughfares such as State of Franklin Road and Interstate 26, passing through Kingsport and culminating in Rogersville. An ambulance that Clawson was assigned to carried his body to a funeral home in Rogersville.
Leading the procession was the Bristol Fire Department, which was joined by numerous firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel from Bristol and the surrounding areas. The turnout demonstrated the deep respect and camaraderie shared among first responders in the region.
Brandon Clawson had dedicated several years to the Bristol Fire Department and was an experienced EMT-paramedic, boasting around 22 years of service. His dedication to emergency services extended beyond the Bristol Fire Department, as he also recently received a lifetime membership from the Carter’s Valley Volunteer Fire Department, demonstrating his commitment to serving the community.
Colleagues described Clawson as a passionate firefighter who loved his job and made it a priority to help others, including caring for animals. The department is treating his passing as a line-of-duty death, honoring his service and sacrifice for the community.
This tragic loss resonates deeply within the community and among first responders, highlighting the risks associated with their daily responsibilities, even in circumstances not related to active emergencies.
Background on Brandon Clawson’s Career
Throughout his career, Clawson’s contributions to the Bristol community were significant, both as a firefighter and an EMT-paramedic. His extensive experience and commitment to public service earned him recognition from peers and several awards for his dedication to helping those in need. Clawson’s legacy will likely continue to inspire upcoming generations of firefighters and emergency personnel.
Community Response
The procession drew attention from the local community, with many residents expressing their condolences and support for Clawson’s family. Acts of kindness and offers of help have emerged from various community members, reflecting the solidarity of Bristol during this difficult time. Jermaine Rosales, a local resident, remarked that Clawson’s dedication and memory will always be a part of Bristol.
Conclusion
The loss of firefighter Brandon Clawson is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders. His commitment to the fire service and the community will be remembered as a testament to his character and valor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Brandon Clawson?
Brandon Clawson passed away on Wednesday due to a medical emergency while he was on duty at the fire station, but it was not related to a call.
What was the purpose of the procession held on Friday?
The procession was held to honor firefighter Brandon Clawson following his line-of-duty death.
How long did Brandon Clawson serve in the fire department?
Brandon Clawson served with the Bristol Fire Department for several years and was an experienced EMT-paramedic with around 22 years of service.
How did the community respond to Clawson’s death?
The community expressed condolences and support for Clawson’s family, with local residents sharing acts of kindness and solidarity during this difficult time.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Firefighter | Brandon Clawson |
| Department | Bristol Tennessee Fire Department |
| Incident Date | Wednesday |
| Procession Date | Friday |
| Years of Service | Approximately 22 years |
| Community Impact | Honored with a procession and condolences from local residents |
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Additional Resources
- News Source: WJHL
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- News Source: WCYB
- Google Search: Bristol Tennessee Firefighter
- News Source: WJHL
- Google Scholar: Brandon Clawson
- News Source: WCYB
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighter
- News Source: WJHL
- Google News: Bristol Tennessee Fire Department
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
