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Autopsy reveals Jacksonville firefighter died of natural causes in the line of duty

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Medical Examiner has determined the cause of death for a Jacksonville firefighter who died shortly after helping free woman from inside a car.

An autopsy reveals Michael Freeland had a stroke while in the line of duty and did not record any other injuries.

The Jacksonville Fire Department and Rescue said back in November crews saw Freeland collapse when he stepped out of the back of the U-Haul. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Freeland worked as a firefighter for over seven years and as an engineer for over two for Fire Station 73. He is one of three firefighters that will be honored Wednesday morning on the Fallen Firefighter Memorial Wall.