rfox@tribtoday.com
LIBERTY The mental health strain on emergency responders was highlighted this year when a Liberty firefighter and paramedic died, kicking off a series of events that led to policy changes in the fire department, criminal charges, firings and criticism of the way township officials handled the events.
John Beard, 51, of McDonald, was a firefighter and paramedic for years, joining the Liberty department full time in 2012. He served “his community and hometown with integrity, generosity and bravery. He was my brother, a son, a father and a friend loved by many,” wrote his sister Jennifer Beard following his April 12 death.
LIBERTY The mental health strain on emergency responders was highlighted this year when a Liberty firefighter and paramedic died, kicking off a series of events that led to policy changes in the fire department, criminal charges, firings and criticism of the way township officials handled the events.
John Beard, 51, of McDonald, was a firefighter and paramedic for years, joining the Liberty department full time in 2012. He served “his community and hometown with integrity, generosity and bravery. He was my brother, a son, a father and a friend loved by many,” wrote his sister Jennifer Beard following his April 12 death.
Beard overdosed on the night of April 11. He was taken by ambulance to the emergency room and the overdose was reversed with Narcan. But, after he was discharged, he died in his sleep a few hours later.