Orange County firefighter dies after routine training exercise

An Orange County firefighter died Thursday morning after a routine training exercise, authorities said.

Battalion Chief Kris Concepcion of the Orange County Fire Authority said James M. Owen, 56, collapsed in full cardiac arrest after an urban search-and-rescue drill in Irvine. Concepcion did not know if Owen had just finished a classroom session or an active part of the drill.

Owen, a firefighter paramedic, had spent much of his 30-year career at Irvine’s Fire Station 4.

“Jimmy was an icon at Station 4,” Concepcion said. “He knew just about everyone in the community....  He would do just about anything for you. He was known to be one of the best firefighters around.”

Concepcion described Owen, his former medic partner, as an assertive firefighter who was nonetheless “very compassionate” when performing paramedic duties.

Owen is survived by his wife, Sharon, and sons Jimmy, Daniel and Kevin.

--Bettina Boxall

Comments

[Christine]

My thoughts go to his family and friends. So sorry for your loss.

[Kathryn]

He was one of the most uplifting guys at the station . They lost a little bit of sun shine.. We will miss him.

[Patrick Audick]

James " Jim" Owen was more than a father, husband, and friend he was a compassionate, humble, man who always put others first before himself. In the midst of these hard times he certainly will not be forgotten. He made a significant impact on other people's lifes and always assisted those in need with respect. He was a community man. He was a person who everybody in the Orange County and Southern California community knew. He loved Football. He was known as "the mayor."I have known Jim my entire life. When I woke up this morning, and found of his passing I cried. He is a legend no one can replace a person like him at the OCFA. My condolences go out to him and his immediate family during these difficult times. I think that Station 4 should be renamed Jim Owen station in the honor of his death. He certainly deserves this. The Orange County Fire Authority, the Orange County community will no longer be the same with out the loss of such a valuable asset. My prayers are with Mrs. Owen, Jimmy, Daniel, and Kevin.

[Stephanie Villarial]

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Sharon. I can't even imagine what you and the boys are going through.