James “J” Muller

Firefighter James “J” Muller, of the Irmo Fire Department in South Carolina, was killed in the line of duty on May 26, 2023. He was battling an apartment fire when a portion of the structure collapsed, trapping him inside. He succumbed to his injuries. Muller was 25 years old and had served with the Irmo Fire Department for seven years. 

Muller completed an internship as a cadet with the Irmo Fire Department while he was in high school and graduated at the top of his class. He was quickly hired and began his career as a firefighter. He was very passionate about the fire service and knew from an early age that it was his calling. He spent his childhood loving the outdoors, hunting, fishing and riding dirt bikes. He was raised by a loving family, including his mother, Denise, his father, Shawn, and his sister, Ambree. His thirst for growth in his profession endeared him to his peers. He spent his off-duty time attending classes and conferences, constantly pushing himself to improve and learn. He attended training events across the country, making an impact on thousands of firefighters, spreading the message of the importance of the job, training, and the value of what they do. His enthusiasm for life was infectious. His attitude, behaviors, and job performance set a great example of how to be a human being. He was a selfless servant, always helping others and going the extra mile to serve the Irmo community. Muller was given the Firefighter of the Year Award twice by the Irmo Fire Department. 

Muller met his future wife, Emma, when he was 18 years old and she was 21. She was attracted to his outgoing personality. They married and had a son, Cole, who was deeply loved by his dad. Muller was a devoted husband, father, and son, who lived life fully and passionately. In his honor, the family has set up the “Muller Memorial Training Fund” to help fund training for firefighters. 

Firefighter James “J” Muller is survived by his loving wife, Emma, his cherished son, Cole, his parents, Denise and Shawn, his sister, Ambree, and many other loving family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Muller family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.