On July 26, 1987, John Nance, a firefighter with the Columbus Division of Fire, died in the line of duty while battling a three-alarm fire at the Mithoff Building, located at 155 North High Street in Columbus, Ohio. Nance was 51 years old and just months away from his retirement when the incident occurred. The fire, which ultimately claimed his life, was later determined to be an arson, making his death one of Columbus's unsolved homicide cases.
The tragedy unfolded when Nance fell through the first floor of the building into the basement, where the fire had been started using gasoline. His colleagues, including Lt. Vic Runkle, tried desperately to reach him, but the hazardous conditions and falling debris forced them back. Despite multiple attempts to rescue him, Nance could not be saved, and he succumbed to his injuries in the basement. Investigators later found that the fire was likely set intentionally for insurance fraud purposes. However, despite their efforts and interviews with multiple suspects, the authorities have been unable to identify the individual or individuals responsible for setting the fire.
The legacy of John Nance continues to influence the firefighting community. The tragic circumstances of his death led to the development of the "Nance Drill" or "Nance Maneuver," a training exercise designed to teach firefighters how to rescue colleagues who fall through floors in burning buildings. The drill, named in honor of Nance, is now a standard part of fire training programs across the country. His memory is also preserved at his old fire station, where a plaque and photographs commemorate his service and dedication. Despite the years that have passed, Nance’s colleagues and the Columbus Division of Fire continue to remember him and seek justice for his untimely death.
