The Highland, Illinois community is in mourning following the tragic death of Gavin L. Schlarmann, a 21-year-old EMT and volunteer firefighter, who lost his life in a motorcycle accident on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The accident occurred near Grantfork along Illinois Route 160.
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According to the Madison County coroner’s office, Schlarmann was transported to St. Joseph Hospital in Highland, where he was pronounced dead at 3:10 p.m. His passing marks a devastating loss for both his family and the emergency service community he dedicated himself to serving.
Raised in Highland, Gavin attended Highland High School before pursuing training at Southwestern Illinois College, where he qualified as an EMT. He furthered his education at the Illinois Fire Service Institute, completing the Basic Operations Firefighter Program. His commitment to public service extended beyond academics, as he actively volunteered and earned the admiration of his peers for his dedication, compassion, and work ethic.
The Highland Fire Department honored him in a heartfelt tribute, describing Gavin as a selfless and dependable young man whose service left a lasting impact on the community. Similarly, the Washington County Emergency Management Agency expressed sorrow at his passing, offering condolences to his loved ones while recognizing his dedication to helping others.
Local outlets including KMOV’s First Alert 4 reported on the accident and noted that funeral arrangements are being coordinated through Meridith Funeral Home in Highland. While full details of the service have not yet been made public, family, friends, and fellow first responders are expected to gather to celebrate Gavin’s life and service.
Though his time was tragically cut short, Gavin Schlarmann will be remembered for his bravery, kindness, and commitment to protecting others. His legacy endures through the lives he touched and the example he set for future generations of emergency responders.