Funeral planned for firefighter who died in motorcycle accident

Funeral plans have been announced for a Jefferson County firefighter who died in a motorcycle accident in Blount County.

Justin Phillip King, 23, died Tuesday night when his Harley-Davidson veered off U.S. 31 near Church Street and struck a utility pole.

King was thrown from the motorcycle and pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

King, who lived in Blount County, joined Hoover Fire in September 2023. He was both a firefighter and an emergency medical technician.

He also held part-time positions with the Center Point Fire District and the Warrior Fire Department.

“It is with profound shock and sadness that we share the sudden and tragic news of the untimely passing of our friend, brother and colleague,” Center Point Fire Department officials wrote on Facebook.

“Justin and his brother Austin were not just members of our firefighting family, they were born into it,” the post said. “They grew up near Center Point Fire, followed in the footsteps of their father, Jonathan King (JK), who retired in 2015, and became an integral part of our community at a young age.”

“We ask that you please keep Justin’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” officials said. “Your support and comfort are greatly appreciated.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help with King’s funeral. He leaves behind his wife and their young son.

“He touched the lives of so many people and now it’s our turn to give back to his precious family,” the fundraising page says. “Justin was a wonderful husband to his wife Hope and the best father to sweet little Colt.”

Donations to the family are possible here.

The wake for King will be held on Saturday, July 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church in Warrior. A service will be held at 2 p.m., followed by burial at County Line Baptist Church Cemetery in Trafford.