Hopkins, MN – The City of Hopkins, the Hopkins Police Department and the Hopkins Fire Department are saddened to announce the death of Fire Department Assistant Chief James “Jimmy” Scanlon, who died on Friday, November 4, after going into cardiac arrest the day prior.
Because he responded to a fire call for the City of Hopkins early in the morning of the day he went into cardiac arrest, Chief Scanlon’s death is considered a line of duty death.
Chief Scanlon served the Hopkins Fire Department as a firefighter for 14 years (2008 to present) and has served as Assistant Chief since 2019.
He also worked for the Hopkins Police Department for 16 years (2004-2017) as a Reserve Officer, Dispatcher and Public Safety Officer. He left the department in 2016 for professional growth and an opportunity with the City of Bloomington’s police department.
In his resignation letter from the Hopkins Police Department, Chief Scanlon stated “I will always value the experience and professional connections I have made with members of this department…I look forward to continuing to work with members of the Hopkins Police Department through my position with Hopkins Fire.”
Chief Scanlon was one of our own. Not only did he grow up in Hopkins, graduating from Hopkins High School in 2003, but he grew up working for the City. His father, Bob Scanlon worked for the City of Hopkins in IT from 2001 to 2003. Chief Scanlon began his career with the City at 16, when he was hired as a seasonal employee helping his Dad with a variety of IT projects.
“Jimmy was known for his superior knowledge of IT, commitment to the City and willingness to help out however he could. He will be deeply missed,” said Hopkins Fire Department Chief Dale Specken. “Our condolences go out to Chief Scanlon’s family.”
Chief Scanlon leaves behind his partner Kat Willette, children Arabella (15), Killian (6) and twins Laina and Liam (4).
A visitation for Chief Scanlon will be held on Wednesday, November 9, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m.
The City’s flags are at half-staff and will remain at half-staff through the day of Chief Scanlon’s funeral.