LODD - 2 N.C. Firefighters Killed in Crash

[Guest]

SUSAN NICOL KYLE

Firehouse.Com News

Two North Carolina firefighters were killed Saturday when their tanker crashed while enroute to a structure fire.

The volunteers at Rhodestown Volunteer Fire Department were identified as Billy Harold Williams, 45, and Brandon Whimple, 19. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, said Chief Marty Updegraff.

Williams was driving, and Whimple was the only passenger. One was ejected and thrown clear of the vehicle, while the other was pinned underneath it, the chief said.

The crash just before noon occurred on a straight road. It's believed the wheels slipped off the highway, and the driver overcompensated while trying to regain control. The 1987 Chevrolet tanker carrying 1,200 gallons of water veered off the road and rolled over.

Updegraff said he had a bad feeling when he heard on his radio that the tanker was involved in a wreck, knowing that was the route it would take. "I just knew it had to be mine..."

The chief arrived a few minutes later to confirm his worst fear.

The volunteer department in Jacksonville is not handling any calls at least through Monday. Firefighters from surrounding areas are filling in to cover.

"They were both active members," the chief said.

Updegraff said he didn't believe they were wearing seatbelts.

More information will be posted on Firehouse.com as it becomes available.

[lad41der 0]

When are we going to learn? Gee I do recall taking an evoc class with this kind of situation in it.

[Guest alsfirefighter]

Sad, but you hit the nail on the head lad41der. Particulary when just 2 to 3 days ago we lost a Chicago firefighter whom was ejected and a ladder truck was on top of him. And yes there are 2 tanker incidents discussed as case studies in the EVOC course. However there are still not only numerous NIOSH LODD investigations about not only tankers (NIOSH has a report specifically addressing tanker accidents its important to point out) but other LODD with vehicles and not wearing seatbelts. THis is stressed by every major fire instructor and fire service leaders.

Gang...we have to get this...this shouldn't be an option...please wear your seatbelts. POV's....fire apparatus....ambulance...flycar....RMP....wear your seatbelts and protect yourself!