Firefighter/Trainer Gary Wayne James, 80, of the Adrian Volunteer Fire Department, died on July 31, 2026, after his brush truck rolled over while he was responding to a vehicle fire. James, a volunteer with 50 years of service, failed to negotiate a curve, causing the accident.
He was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. This incident marks the 50th firefighter fatality reported in 2026.