Sergeant Steven Donald Van Horn

Steven Donald Van Horn

Sergeant Van Horn, along with fire personnel, responded to a toxic chemicals fire in 1987.

Sergeant Van Horn coordinated traffic and evacuation at the scene without protective gear and was exposed to the toxic chemicals. After the fire, Sergeant Van Horn and three firefighters were diagnosed with cancer. Sgt. Van Horn passed away from the illness on November 16, 1997. One other firefighter has also passed away. The City of Newport Beach proclaimed his illness and death duty related.

Sergeant Van Horn had served with the Newport Police Department for 24 years and previously served with the Yuma Police Department (Arizona). He is survived by his wife and six children.