The EMS and firefighting communities throughout New Haven, Bridgeport, Fairfield, and surrounding areas of Connecticut are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Thomas “TJ” Kochera, who passed away on June 5, 2026. His passing has left colleagues, friends, patients, and loved ones grieving the loss of a highly respected paramedic, trusted teammate, and remarkable individual whose impact will be felt for years to come.

TJ Kochera devoted his life to serving others. As a valued member of the AMR Bridgeport family since 2012, he dedicated more than a decade to providing emergency medical care to countless individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation for exceptional clinical skill, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to patient care.

Whether responding to routine medical calls or high-acuity emergencies, TJ approached every situation with calm confidence, compassion, and determination. His patients were never just calls on a dispatch screen—they were people in need, and he treated each one with dignity, empathy, and respect.

Beyond his professional expertise, TJ was beloved by colleagues for the energy and positivity he brought to every shift. Coworkers describe him as someone whose smile, humor, and easygoing nature could lighten even the most stressful situations. His “giggly” personality and infectious laughter became a source of comfort and encouragement to those around him, helping teammates navigate the emotional demands of emergency medical service.

TJ was also known as a mentor and friend. He willingly shared his knowledge with newer providers, offered guidance without judgment, and helped foster a culture of teamwork and mutual support. His presence on scene inspired confidence, while his kindness created lasting friendships throughout the EMS and firefighting communities.

Those who worked alongside him remember a professional who consistently led by example. He demonstrated not only technical excellence but also the compassion and humanity that define the very best in emergency medicine. His dedication to helping others extended far beyond patient care, touching the lives of coworkers, friends, and community members alike.

The impact of TJ’s passing has been felt deeply across emergency service organizations throughout the region. Tributes from fellow paramedics, EMTs, firefighters, dispatchers, and healthcare professionals continue to highlight the respect, admiration, and affection he earned throughout his career. Many have described him as an inspiration whose influence helped shape them into better providers and better people.

While the EMS community mourns this tremendous loss, they also celebrate a life dedicated to service, compassion, and making a difference. TJ’s legacy lives on through the countless patients he cared for, the colleagues he mentored, and the friendships he built throughout his years of service.

His commitment to helping others, his kindness, and his genuine spirit will never be forgotten. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the example he set and the lives he touched will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

Thomas “TJ” Kochera will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

May he rest in peace.