New Haven Firefighter Passes Away Following Heart Surgery Complications

WHO:

New Haven Independent - Thomas Kochera, a firefighter and paramedic with the New Haven Fire Department (NHFD).

NH Register - Mayor Justin Elicker commented on the impact of Firefighter Kochera's work.

WHAT:

New Haven Independent - Thomas Kochera passed away due to complications from heart surgery.

NH Register - Mayor Elicker stated, "More New Haveners are alive and well thanks to Firefighter Kochera."

WHERE:

New Haven Independent - The incident involved the New Haven Fire Department.

WHY:

NH Register - The complications arose from heart surgery that Kochera underwent.

HOW:

New Haven Independent - Kochera was a dedicated paramedic for a decade before his passing.

(UPDATED June 8, 2026 21:32 UTC)

Thomas Kochera, a firefighter and paramedic with the New Haven Fire Department, has passed away due to complications from heart surgery. Mayor Justin Elicker expressed his condolences, highlighting that "more New Haveners are alive and well thanks to Firefighter Kochera," reflecting the impact of his decade-long dedication to the community. The loss of Kochera is felt deeply within the New Haven community, where he served with commitment and care.