Former Miami-Dade firefighters charged in son’s death during 2024 training exercise

Back in June of 2024, a routine fire training exercise in Miami-Dade turned deadly when an unauthorized live fire broke out, killing a 28-year-old man who was not supposed to be there. Now, two former firefighters, including the victim’s father, face manslaughter charges in his death.

The ex-firefighters are also facing negligence charges in connection with the deadly training exercise that killed Fabian Camero.

According to court documents, the exercise took place in a building where the owner had not authorized live fire training.

The two firefighters under arrest are accused of placing barrels used for training simulations inside the structure, leading to the fire that ultimately killed Camero.

Father and former colleague charged

Francisco Camero, the victim’s father and a former firefighter, has been charged with manslaughter and negligence.

Prosecutors requested a higher bond, but Miami-Dade Judge Mindy Glazer lowered it, acknowledging that the father had surrendered and was not considered a flight risk.

“I know this was an accident. He wasn’t intending for his son to be killed,” Glazer said. She set Camero’s bond at $20,000 for the manslaughter charge and $500 each for two counts of negligence.

Former firefighter Rafael Fernandez faces the same charges. His bond was set at $30,000 for manslaughter and $500 each for two counts of negligence.

Unauthorized fire led to tragedy

Investigators found that live fire training in acquired structures is prohibited. The fire was reportedly ignited by a smaller training barrel left unattended near flammable materials.

Both Camero and Fernandez resigned from the fire department after the incident. A third firefighter involved in the exercise has not been charged.

The families of the accused have not publicly commented and both men are expected to post bond.