Firefighters across the North Metro Fire Rescue District and Westminster are grieving after the off‑duty death of Lieutenant Chad Tellinger, 52, on Thursday following an illness. A fixture in the district for more than 27 years, Tellinger is survived by his wife, two daughters, two sisters, and his mother.
Department Announcement And Immediate Reaction
The Westminster Fire Department publicly shared the news in a Facebook post, writing, “We are extremely saddened to hear of the loss of Lieutenant Tellinger.” The department said North Metro Fire had confirmed the off‑duty death and was working with Tellinger’s family to coordinate services and support. The post noted he was hired by North Metro in 1998 and described him as “a highly respected firefighter, mentor, and IAFF Local 2203 leader,” according to the Westminster Fire Department.
Tellinger’s Service Record And Department Ties
Public state certification records list Chad Tellinger as a Fire Inspector I with North Metro Fire Rescue District, confirming his formal role with the agency. The district is part of the North Area partnership of departments, a tight regional network that frequently trains and works together, a relationship highlighted on the North Metro Fire Rescue District site and referenced in Westminster’s message of condolence.
Union Role And Local Leadership
Tellinger’s influence reached beyond his day‑to‑day assignment. Regional union records and organizational listings note his leadership within IAFF Local 2203, reflecting a presence that stretched across his own crew and into the wider firefighter community he mentored. Those listings describe him as a familiar figure in Local 2203’s ranks and in North Metro’s internal teams, with colleagues crediting his guidance across shifts and neighboring departments, according to IAFF Local 2203.
What Comes Next
For now, departments that worked alongside Tellinger are focused on supporting his family and each other. Westminster’s post notes that North Metro will share details on services and memorial arrangements in the coming days, with the family’s permission. Until then, North Metro and neighboring agencies are asking for privacy for Tellinger’s loved ones as they coordinate support and next steps, according to the department’s public statement on social media.
