Whiteside County jurors have been shown poignant family photos and heartfelt testimony as the civil trial over Sterling Fire Lieutenant Garrett Ramos’ line-of-duty death enters its second week. Ramos, 38, died in December 2021 after falling through a burning floor into an unrecognized basement while battling a blaze in Rock Falls.
His widow, Brittney Ramos, alleges fire officials exhibited willful disregard by failing to ensure proper training and accountability. On the stand, Fire Chief Ken Wolf admitted more training was needed and acknowledged that departmental deficiencies contributed to Ramos’ death. Emotional statements from Ramos’ family emphasized his legacy and the tragedy of his loss.