Chris Higgins, the 23-year veteran of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFR) who died Saturday while fighting a fire, was “a family man” who loved his wife, two children and fellow emergency personnel, said Fire Chief Corey Smedley.
“Chris as I understand was a pretty quiet guy, but he was a serious guy about his work. Not only was he a mentor here in the department, it was in his blood to serve his community,” Smedley said Sunday.
Higgins. of Pasadena, Md, was part of the crew that responded to a house fire on Bradford Drive in Laurel Saturday and was the driver of the first ladder truck to arrive on the scene. While actively fighting the fire, Higgins suffered “some kind of medical emergency,” Smedley said.
The incident “occurred as he was throwing ladders to the structure,” according to MCFR.
CRP was performed at the scene before Higgins was transferred to Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center. He was pronounced dead at the Silver Spring hospital.
Smedley referred to Higgins as “our beloved master firefighter.” He said Higgins always wore a hat.
Members of the Montgomery County Career Fire Fighters Local 1664 announced Higgins’ death “with profound and heavy hearts.”
In a news release, union members wrote, “His passing marks an immeasurable loss to our department, the community he served, and his loved ones.”
They called Higgins “an exceptional fire fighter, but also a mentor, leader, and friend to countless colleagues. Known for his unwavering commitment, bravery and compassion, he embodied the very best qualities of our profession.”
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Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service also issued a news release, noting, “Rest in peace, hero. We’ll take it from here.”
In addition to his work in Montgomery County, he volunteered in Earliegh Heights in Anne Arundel County.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Chris’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Fire Chief Corey Smedley. “Master Firefighter Higgins dedicated his life to protecting others, and we are committed to honoring his legacy by continuing to serve with the same courage and dedication to which he demonstrated every day,” Smedley noted in the news release.
“Master Firefighter Christopher J. Higgins’ legacy will forever remain a part of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. We honor his service and sacrifice, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones,” Smedley noted.
Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service ‘Line-of-Duty-Death’ January 12, 2025 – Update from @mcfrs Fire Chief Corey Smedley WATCH: https://t.co/qcpObIi9dq pic.twitter.com/9mvzE41VCK
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) January 12, 2025
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Photos Courtesy of MCFRS
