Philadelphia Paramedic Dies from COVID-19 Complications

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A Philadelphia paramedic died Monday from complications of COVID-19

William "Brad" Blackman, a paramedic with American Medical Response in Philadelphia, likely contracted the virus while on the job, according to an online update by the Swarthmore Fire & Protective Association, which he joined in 1983. Blackman, 56, began as a firefighter before ultimately becoming an ambulance captain with the association.

"Passionate about fire and emergency medical services, Brad was instrumental in the fire company’s initial purchase of an ambulance and development of its emergency medical services program," the association stated.

Outside of work, Blackman was an avid bicyclist and rode in tours around the area, including the Policy Unity Bike Tour and the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride. He also enjoyed diving in the Caribbean.

"With a career spanning 30 years in EMS, Brad exemplified what it meant to be a team player," AMR said in a statement. "He was always willing to come in for extra shifts especially when we needed him. Just a month ago, Brad received a commendation for helping save a man’s life. He and his partner came upon a man getting ready to jump off of a bridge. They were able to talk him down and get him help. He was a true hero."

Details concerning a funeral service have not been released.