Fire department mourns firefighter who died while hiking in park

BOONE COUNTY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) — The Independence Fire Department is mourning the loss of a firefighter who died while hiking in central Missouri.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office said it responded to a 911 call at Pinnacles Park, just north of Columbia, at about 10:15 a.m. Tuesday. The caller reported that a person had fallen from a cliff.

Authorities respond to Pinnacles Park

Authorities found Sarah Longest at the scene after she fell about 50 feet from a cliff.

Longest, a HAZMAT technician with the Independence Fire Department, was nonresponsive and was declared dead at the scene, authorities said.

Longest was with an acquaintance at the time of her fall. Authorities said, “there is no reason at this time to believe the female’s fall and subsequent death was anything other than a tragic accident.”

Longest’s role with the department and union

Longest was a member of the Independence Fire Department’s Peer Support Team. She also served as a Good and Welfare Trustee for IAFF Local 781.

Longest had worked for the Independence Fire Department since March 10, 2025.

Department statement

In a statement, the Independence Fire Department said Longest’s commitment to serving others extended beyond responding to emergencies. The department said that through her involvement in the department and union, she demonstrated a dedication to supporting those who served alongside her.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Sarah’s family, friends, fellow firefighters and all who knew and loved her,” the department said. “Her service, compassion and commitment to others will not be forgotten.”

The department added: “Rest in peace, Firefighter Longest. We are grateful for your service to our community.”