Orange County Firefighter Dies Battling Blaze In Laguna Niguel

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA — A longtime firefighter with the Orange County Fire Authority died Sunday after suffering a cardiac arrest while responding to a residential structure fire in Laguna Niguel, officials said.

Kevin Skinner, a fire apparatus engineer, suffered the medical emergency shortly before 5 a.m. while at the scene of the fire in the 29400 block of Pointe Royale, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

"While performing a search for residents, Kevin reported feeling unwell and was escorted outside to a waiting paramedic unit," the agency announced on social media. "Shortly after, he collapsed. Despite the heroic efforts of our crews and medical personnel, Kevin did not survive."

Skinner served the Orange County Fire Authority for more than 25 years, joining the agency in 1999, after serving in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife and three children.

"Our hearts are with his family, friends and all who knew him during this incredibly difficult time," the agency said. "We are deeply grateful for Kevin's dedication to protecting our community and will never forget his sacrifice."