Affton Fire Chief James Cova found dead at station

AFFTON, Missouri – An Affton Fire Protection District captain was found dead while on shift Tuesday afternoon.

Captain James “Jim” Cova, described by colleagues as a “gentle giant” and highly respected by firefighters in southern St. Louis County, was found unconscious in his room at Affton Fire Station 1 on Gravois Road.

Cova was 54.

According to Lt. Jason Brice, a district spokesman, Cova had responded to several calls and conducted several emergency response operations that day.

The firefighters at the station were preparing for another call when they noticed that Cova had not yet joined them. They then went to his room and found him.

The cause of death has not yet been determined.

“Captain Cova was a true hero who wanted to serve our community and his family. We are all deeply saddened by his loss,” said Acting Affton Fire Chief Aaron Rhodes.

Cova leaves behind a wife and two daughters. Brice said they were his biggest priority.

The Affton Fire Protection District is planning a memorial service to honor Cova and his family.