Crime & Safety
VA Firefighter Collapses, Dies Fighting Wildfire On Easter
A part-time firefighter with the Virginia Department of Forestry collapsed and died Easter Sunday in Scott County, authorities said.
SCOTT COUNTY, VA — A Virginia Department of Forestry firefighter for 25 years died Easter Sunday while fighting a 3-acre fire in Scott County, authorities said.
The part-time firefighter was identified as James C. Ward, who collapsed while working with a hand crew fighting a blaze on Garland Drive in Scott County. He was taken to Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee.
A resident of Scott County, Ward was an experienced DOF part-time firefighter who had worked with the agency since 1998. He leaves behind a wife and son, the agency said in a news release.
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Ward was also a lifetime member of the Weber City Volunteer Fire Department, the Kingsport TN Times News reported.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share such sad news on this Easter afternoon,” said State Forester Rob Farrell. “Please keep James’ loved ones and his firefighter family in your thoughts and prayers. And remember, everything you do to prevent wildfires helps protect our brave first responders.”
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He was also a lifetime member of the Weber City Volunteer Fire Department
The cause of the fire, contained Sunday, remains under investigation.
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