Bridgeport Mourns Loss Of Beloved Firefighter

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Municipal flags are being flown at half-staff in Bridgeport on Monday, in honor of Bridgeport Firefighter Terrence Cramer, who was shot and killed in Stratford over the weekend.

The 41-year-old Bridgeport resident has been a member of the Bridgeport Fire Department for nearly a decade. A suspect in the shooting, who Stratford police said is a convicted felon, has been arrested.

"Firefighter Cramer served the City of Bridgeport with dedication and honor for 9.5 years, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and safety of others," said Fire Chief Lance Edwards, adding the department was "deeply saddened" by Cramer's passing. "Firefighter Cramer was not only a valued member of our department, but also a friend, colleague, and public servant who will be greatly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Firefighter Cramer’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time."

Cramer, a father of two sons, was found by police on Freely Street in Stratford at about 1:45 a.m. on Saturday, he was bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic a short time later.

The suspect, 41-year-old Jabari Bush, was taken into custody in Derby on Sunday afternoon.

Stratford Capt. Jerry Pinto said members of the department would not rest until Bush was caught. Bush has been charged with murder, home invasion, and criminal possession of a firearm, and he is currently being held in lieu of bail of $2 million.

"None of us were going home until we had captured this dangerous convicted felon and removed his ability to cause future violence against the citizens of CT," Pinto said.

Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim said he and the city "join Chief Edwards and the members of the Bridgeport Fire Department in mourning the tragic passing of Firefighter Terrence Cramer.

"Firefighter Cramer served the City of Bridgeport with dedication and honor for nearly a decade, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and safety of others. His service reflects the very best of what it means to wear the uniform and answer the call of duty. He was not only a valued member of our Fire Department, but also a proud public servant whose loss will be felt deeply across our entire city.

"On behalf of the City of Bridgeport, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Firefighter Cramer’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We stand with you, and we honor his life, his service, and his sacrifice."