LODD-Benedict, Nebraska Volunteer FF - Heart Attack

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Benedict, Nebraska Volunteer Firefighter Dies in Line of Duty

BENEDICT -- For what may be the first time in York County history, a firefighter has died in the line of duty.

According to information from York Fire Chief Kevin Stuhr representing York County Mutual Aid, Michael Aunkst, 45, of Benedict, died early Sunday morning after having an apparent heart attack while working at the scene of a fire in rural Gresham.

Stuhr explained that Waco, Benedict and Gresham crews were dispatched to a barn fire at 1910 Road 24, at approximately 12:20 a.m. While responding to the fire, Aunkst suffered a heart attack and was transported by the Gresham crew to Highway 81 where they were met by York Advanced Life Support. Together, the two squads transferred Aunkst to York General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later.  

Members of local mutual aid have provided a round-the-clock vigil since the time of his death, with a firefighter remaining with the body at all times until interment, Stuhr said, as is protocol when a firefighter dies in this manner.

Source: Firehouse.com