Ryan Milligan, 36, a North Royalton firefighter and paramedic, died after becoming trapped in a basement during a Broadview Heights house fire. His colleagues and community are mourning his loss. Ryan Milligan Identified as Fallen North Royalton Firefighter The North Royalton, Ohio, community is mourning Ryan Milligan, a 36-year-old firefighter and paramedic who died after being trapped while responding to a residential fire in Broadview Heights. Milligan was among the North Royalton firefighters who responded to the emergency on Monday evening, November 2, 2026. According to reporting published by Firehouse, he became trapped in the basement of the burning home and later died from his injuries. His identity was reported on November 4, following initial announcements from North Royalton officials that one firefighter had died and another had been seriously injured. What Happened During the Broadview Heights House Fire? The fire occurred at a residential property in the 2100 block of West Royalton Road in Broadview Heights. North Royalton firefighters were responding as part of a mutual-aid operation when two members of the department suffered serious injuries. Milligan became trapped in the basement while fighting the blaze. His colleague, Firefighter/Paramedic Andrew Protsman, 38, was also seriously injured but was expected to recover, according to information attributed to North Royalton Mayor Paul F. Marnecheck II. The circumstances surrounding the fire remain under investigation. Ryan Milligan’s Service and Family Milligan lived in Seven Hills and had served with the North Royalton Fire Department for approximately 10 years. At the time of his death, he was preparing for the department’s promotional examination for lieutenant, reflecting his continued commitment to his firefighting career. He leaves behind a wife and two children. His death is a profound loss for his family, fellow firefighters and the wider public safety community. Mayor Marnecheck described firefighters as more than colleagues, emphasising the close bonds they share while serving their communities. He asked residents to remember both Milligan’s family and the injured firefighter’s family during this difficult period. Community Mourns a Firefighter Who Died in the Line of Duty News of Milligan’s death has prompted condolences from public officials and emergency-service colleagues across Ohio. Attorney General Andy Wilson also issued a statement recognising the sacrifice of the fallen firefighter and expressing support for his injured colleague. A fundraising effort was established to support Milligan’s family following his death. The campaign had reportedly raised nearly $134,000 by late Tuesday, November 3. As his loved ones and colleagues grieve, Milligan is being remembered for a decade of service and his dedication to protecting others. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, children, relatives, friends and fellow first responders. May they find strength and comfort during this difficult time. Obituary Details Full name: Ryan Milligan Age: 36 Residence: Seven Hills, Ohio Occupation: Firefighter/Paramedic, North Royalton Fire Department Date of incident: November 2, 2026 Location: Broadview Heights, Ohio Cause of death: Injuries sustained after becoming trapped in the basement of a burning home. Survivors: Wife and two children Funeral arrangements: Details were not available in the reports reviewed. Editorial Note: Ryan Milligan’s identity and age have since been reported by Firehouse and local news outlets, updating the earlier reports that did not name the fallen firefighter. The fire investigation and any further official memorial arrangements remain separate matters awaiting additional information. Post navigation Austin John Esser Obituary: 28-Year-Old Brandon, South Dakota, Resident Remembered Lanie van der Walt Obituary: Musician and Sound Engineer Remembered for His Creative Legacy