Chris Sorensen, Firehouse Subs co-founder, dies at 65

Chris Sorensen, the co-founder of the fast-casual restaurant chain Firehouse Subs, has died at the age of 65. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family; a specific cause of death has not been released.

Sorensen co-founded the Jacksonville, Florida-based business in 1994 alongside his brother, Robin Sorensen. Before entering the restaurant industry, Chris Sorensen served for a decade as an engineer and emergency medical technician with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department. He was also a musician who performed with various notable bands.

Beyond the restaurant brand, Sorensen was a key figure in the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, established in 2005. The foundation has provided over $118 million in grants to approximately 7,700 first responder departments across the United States and Canada to supply life-saving equipment and education.

Sorensen was also recognized for his creative contributions to the brand, having designed the interior aesthetics and decor for the restaurant locations.