KENTUCKY FIREFIGHTER/DEPUTY STATE FIRE MARSHAL DIES IN THE LINE OF DUTY
The Secret List www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com
We regret to advise you that a 32 year veteran Firefighter (and Deputy State Fire Marshal) with the Columbia-Adair County FD suffered an apparent heart attack and has now died in the Line of Duty. He was originally air lifted to a Louisville hospital after operating at the fire at a residence on KY 206 on June 30th.
Forty-nine-year-old Charles "Sparky" Sparks, a 32-year veteran of the CACFD who works as a Deputy State Fire Marshall, and also a well known State Fire Instructor, suffered the heart attack and went into sudden cardiac arrest while inside the burning structure. His fellow volunteer firemen used CPR and AED on Sparks until the Adair County EMS arrived on the scene. He was transported to Westlake Regional Hospital and then airlifted by Air Evac to Norton’s Audubon Hospital in Louisville.
FF Sparks was 49 years old and survived by his wife, Tammy, and 15 year old son, Trent.
The fire at which FF Sparks was stricken occurred around 0305 hours Thursday, June 30, at a dwelling located at 3043 Liberty Road. No one was at home at the time the fire occurred. As always, our sincere condolences to all affected in the loss of this well known Kentucky Firefighter.
FORMER IAFC PRESIDENT PASSES
We are saddened to let you know that Chief Doug Pollington, age 87, IAFC President in 1983 has passed away. Chief Pollington had a very productive life with the fire service, serving as the Cambridge Fire Chief and President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. Margaret (Thomson), who was the love of his life for 67 years, died the day prior to his passing.
A TRAGIC OFF DUTY FIREFIGHTER DEATH
Texas Firefighter Shannon Stone from Brownwood City, was attending a ball game game between Texas Rangers and Oakland Athletics last night, with his son. A tragic accident happened during the second inning following a foul ball by Oakland’s Connor Jackson which bounced into left field. Reports are that FF Stone fell about 20 feet after trying to catch the ball. He was reportedly conscious immediately after the fall, however went into full arrest while being transported by EMS. He was pronounced dead in Fort Worth hospital one hour after the accident. Our condolences to all affected.
As you may remember, Firefighter Tyler Morris (Lake Cities FD, Texas) fractured his skull a year ago at the same ball field, following a similar fall as well.
Take Care-BE CAREFUL.
BillyG
The Secret List 7-8-11/ 1000 Hours
