PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Kenney issued the following statement upon the passing of Fire Lt. Benny Hutchins, who experienced a medical emergency at the Fire Academy earlier this week.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of firefighter Lt. Benny Hutchins. I am thankful for his outstanding service to our city during his 34-year career with the Philadelphia Fire Department. Firefighters are heroes who put their lives on the line every single day in service to others. We must honor their sacrifice, especially the sacrifices of a veteran firefighter like Lt. Hutchins. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family. Please keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

To honor the memory of Lt. Hutchins, all City of Philadelphia flags will be flown at half-staff for 30 days. Funeral arrangements are pending.