Fire News Virginia 12-2025

In this issue...

Smoke and Flames on Arrival

Norfolk Fire-Rescue crews responded to a report of a residential structure fire on Spruce Street.

See story on page 4

Shed Fires Stopped in Chesapeake

The Chesapeake Fire Department responded to a structure fire involving two sheds on October 27, 2025.

See story on page 12

2 Vehicle MVA on Route 460

Crews from Suffolk Fire Rescue responded to a two-vehicle MVA on Route 460.

See story on page 14

Helping Out in Jamaica

After Melissa Virginia Task Force 1 deployed to Kingston, Jamaica, as part of the US Department of State disaster response team.

See story on page 20

Tribute in Memory of NAFECO founder

Jerrell Oaks

See story on page 24

Roanoke Remembering 9/11

The Roanoke community gathered at the Wells Fargo Tower for the 11th Annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

See story on page 28

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Virginia Firefighter

News

pages 6-11

page 18

page 28

page 30

Homicide & Arson in Chesterfield County

Smoke and Flames on Arrival

Norfolk Fire-Rescue crews responded to a report of a residential structure fire on Spruce Street. Smoke and flames were visible on arrival. An aggressive interior attack was executed, and the fire was successfully extinguished. All occupants were able to evacuate safely, and no injuries were reported. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR

Chesterfield Police are investigating a homicide and arson that occurred at a home in the 500 block of Rosegill Road. At around 0420 hours Chesterfield Fire and EMS crews responded for a reported fire alarm at the residence. When firefighters arrived, they found flames showing from the exterior of the home and requested additional resources. Two women were located inside the residence, rescued by firefighters, and transported to area hospitals where they later died from their injuries. Chesterfield Police say the two were sisters. Following a joint investigation by Chesterfield Fire Marshal’s Office and Chesterfield Police, the fire was determined to have been intentionally set. With assistance from Henrico Police, investigators arrested a 25-year-old for intentionally setting fire to an occupied dwelling. Police say additional charges are anticipated. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Chesterfield Police at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn

Shed Fires Stopped in Chesapeake

The Chesapeake Fire Department responded to a structure fire involving two sheds shortly after 0500 hours on October 27, 2025. Dispatchers received reports of shed on fire in the 400 block of Bartel Drive in the Great Bridge section of the city. Engine Company 5 arrived at 0513 and reported to two small sheds on fire. Firefighters quickly deployed hoselines to completely extinguish the fires on both structures. Due to the quick actions of firefighters, they were able to contain the fire to the sheds and prevent them from spreading to other structures on the property. No injuries were reported. The fire’s cause was determined to be accidental.

- Photos courtesy of CFD

Commercial Fire on Factory Street

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded early on October 15, 2025, to a reported commercial structure fire in the 300 block of Factory Street. Emergency Communications was contacted at 0451 hours. Engine 3 and Ladder 3 arrived and reported a fire involving a silo containing peanut hulls. Further investigation found an active fire in a hopper system located at the rear of the building. The fire had also extended into one tractor-trailer. Firefighters worked closely with on-site maintenance technicians to bring the fire under control. Thanks to their coordinated efforts, the fire was successfully contained to the hopper system and did not extend into the main structure of the building. The fire was marked under control at 0605.There were no reported injuries associated with the incident. Units on scene: Battalion 1, Car 10, Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Engine 4, Medic 3, Rescue 1, Ladder 3, Ladder 6, and Safety 1.

- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR

Medevac for Trauma Injury

2 Vehicle MVA on Route 460

Crews from Suffolk Fire Rescue responded to a two-vehicle MVA on Route 460. One patient was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

October 14, 2025, Little Fork volunteers were dispatched for a trauma incident in the Quail Ridge subdivision for a worker who’d cut his arm with a circular saw. Crews arrived and assessed the injury and requested a helicopter for an immediate transport to the trauma center at Fairfax Hospital. Little Fork’s engine company set up an LZ at the Jeffersonton Baptist Church. Medic 9, Ambulance 9-1, Rescue Engine 9 and Chief 9 responded to this incident. We thank the 11 providers who assisted with this incident.

- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR

Training

Portsmouth FR & Coast Guard Train Together

On October 21, 2025, Portsmouth Fire Rescue personnel along with the US Coast Guard completed a joint training and vessel familiarization tour aboard the USCGC Seneca. Portsmouth Fire and the Coast Guard enhanced their preparedness for shipboard fire emergencies. This exercise focused on vessel familiarization, allowing firefighters to navigate key compartments of the ship and understand the onboard systems. Crews practiced coordinated fire sup-

pression techniques using both shipboard and department resources. Strong emphasis was placed on clear communication and the establishment of the unified command structure to assist in coordination during real-world incidents. The training improved interagency collaboration and response effectiveness for future maritime emergencies.

- Photos courtesy of Portsmouth FR

Helping Out in Jamaica After Melissa

Virginia Task Force 1 deployed to Kingston, Jamaica, as part of the US Department of State disaster response team, addressing the damage from Hurricane Melissa. The task force, consisting of 34 persons and four dogs, was an effort by the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue team who joined forces with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of State and United Nations INSARAG team. VA Task Force 1 conducted an aerial survey which

covered 350 miles, and were part of a team deployed to the Black River, addressing the damage and needs of residents in that area. Priorities include establishing a base of operations and working with the Jamaican authorities to ensure the operations meet their needs, they reported.

Falls Church House Fire

arrived to heavy fire showing from a single-family home. Crews immediately went to work to extinguish the blaze There were no reported civilian or firefighter injuries. Units: E418M, E106, E408M, E430M, T106, TL408M, R404, M418, A106, EMS403, BC404, BC443, SAF401, PIO402, DC402, FE403M, R408M, EMS401, BC101, M421, LA423, IV04, E428M, IV06 and CA401.

- Photos courtesy Fairfax County FR

Tribute In Memory of NAFECO Founder

Mr. Jerrell

Oaks

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our founder and CEO, Mr. Jerrell Oaks.

For more than 55 years, Mr. Oaks dedicated himself to NAFECO, working every day to provide exceptional products and service to our customers. His vision, determination, and leadership shaped not only our company, but also the people who make up the NAFECO family.

Mr. Oaks built NAFECO on values of hard work, integrity, and commitment — values he instilled in every employee. Because of his leadership and example, NAFECO’s strength, quality, and spirit will continue to thrive for years to come.

We ask that you keep the Oaks family and the entire NAFECO family in your thoughts and prayers as we honor his remarkable legacy and celebrate the lasting impact he made on us all.

- The NAFECO Family

Brandon Oaks, Brian Oaks, Brent Oaks

This is What We Do

of the Virginia

from the Office of the

their

and

out to see live hands-on training from some of our technical rescue programs. This experience gave Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) the opportunity to showcase the importance of proper training and preparedness for Virginia’s firefighters.

- Photos courtesy VDFP

Lt. Alan Mitchell Celebrates his Retirement from Station 4 A-Shift

Mitchell’s journey into the fire service began in 1988, when a childhood friend working for Salem Fire Department inspired him to start volunteering. For years, he pursued his dream of becoming a career firefighter in Roanoke, gaining certifications and experience while building connections across the fire service community. At age 36, his persistence paid off when he was offered a position with Roanoke Fire-EMS. He joined Recruit Class #5, officially beginning the career he had long dreamed of. thing his Captain encouraged him to pursue, and when he achieved it, it became one of the proudest moments of his career. The lieutenant’s test, he explained, is one of the hardest promotions to achieve, with a large candidate pool and an intensive testing process.

VDFP gets Certificate of Recognition

At home, his wife, Cindy, and their children— Emma, who recently graduated from Radford University’s Nursing School, and Jesse, who is now 18—were always his foundation. He remembers balancing long shifts, medic school, and raising a young family, and says he could not have done it without their support. This October, he and Cindy will celebrate their 33rd wedding anniversary.

When asked what legacy he hopes to leave, his answer was golden: “Treat everyone the way you want to be treated. Keep in mind that every call may be someone’s worst day, always strive to give your best.”

As Lt. Alan Mitchell retires, his career leaves behind a story of perseverance, humility, and deep respect for the brotherhood and sisterhood of the fire service.

- Photo courtesy of Roanoke Fire & EMS

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) was honored to receive a Certificate of Recognition from the Office of the Governor in recognition of Fire Prevention Week 2025. Our Community Risk Reduction team, along with Sparky the Fire Dog, visited the Virginia State Capitol to accept the recognition on behalf of Virginia Department of Fire Programs. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of fire prevention and education in keeping Virginians safe year-round. Thank you to our CRR team for their dedication to building safer communities across the Commonwealth.

- Photo courtesy VDFP

Albemarle’s Dan Eggleston Retires

Recently, Albemarle County Fire Chief Dan Eggleston was celebrated for his 23 years of service to Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) and our community. Chief Eggleston’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication have shaped ACFR into the department it is today — a department built on integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to protecting others. Thank you, Chief, for your remarkable career and the legacy you leave behind. We wish you the very best in your well-earned retirement.

- Photos courtesy of ACFR

It’s New to Them

The Concord Volunteer Fire Company is excited to announce in partnership with Appomattox and through the generous donation made by Appomattox Volunteer Fire Department of their former Ladder 1, Concord will now house a ladder truck! Truck 13 will continue to serve Appomattox County in addition to now serving Concord and Campbell County. Truck 13 will be prioritized, when applicable, to respond to mutual aid calls into Appomattox for structure fires, technical rescues, and swift water rescues. It will respond as the second-due ladder company to all commercial incidents and provide Appomattox County with two ladder companies at all times. In the event that AVFD’s ladder is out of service for regular maintenance or emergency repairs, Truck 13 will respond as

the first-due ladder company throughout the county. Over the next few months, Truck 13 will be outfitted with tools and equipment and the membership will be trained on operating the aerial ladder. Once outfitting and training are completed, Truck 13 will be placed back in service to serve Appomattox and Campbell counties. We are extremely grateful towards both the town and county of Appomattox and Appomattox Volunteer Fire Department for the collaborative effort to make this happen. Truck 13 will be a huge benefit to both counties and the Concord community as industrial facilities and commercial buildings continue to expand and build in our area.

- Submitted by Ryan Davis, Captain/ Public Relations Officer

Firefighters from the Richmond Fire Department.

- Photo courtesy RFD

Roanoke Remembering 9/11

On September 13, 2025, the Roanoke community gathered at the Wells Fargo Tower for the 11th Annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, a solemn tribute to the 343 firefighters, 72 police officers, and 8 EMTs who lost their lives in the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Held each year on the Saturday closest to 9/11, the Stair Climb challenges participants to climb the Wells Fargo Tower five times, equaling 110 stories and the height of the World Trade Center Towers. Each climber carries with them a badge bearing the name and photo of a fallen first responder from that day, symbolically completing their mission. After reaching the 110th story, participants ring a large ceremonial bell and speak the name of the hero they carried.

More than 300 participants take part each year, raising over $25,000 annually for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). Funds support programs such as grief counseling, scholarships, and retreats for families of fallen firefighters. The NFFF also provides resources to departments dealing with line-of-duty deaths, a reality that has touched the Roanoke Valley community firsthand.

CFSI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILL WEBB ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

After serving as CFSI Executive Director for the past 30 years, Bill Webb announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. He made the announcement a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Com-mittee and others.

“A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing,” said Webb in his remarks.

“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work. I”

As Executive Director, Webb worked with six administrations and 10 U.S. Fire Administrators. His contributions to the fire service, including his role in the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, his support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and his advocacy for fire safety and prevention, among other issues, have significantly impacted public safety in our nation. In lauding Webb for his contributions to the fire service, CFSI President Jim Estepp quoted Harry Truman who said, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”

“At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services,” said CFSI President Jim Estepp. “We will miss his leadership.”

“This event is only possible because of the dedication of the planning team and the overwhelming support from our community,” said Captain Peter Matthiessen, event organizer and Captain at Roanoke Fire-EMS Station 1. “From the volunteers who coordinate logistics to the participants who climb in honor of the fallen, and the sponsors who ensure we can continue this tradition, everyone plays a vital role in making this event impactful year after year.”

This year’s Stair Climb is made possible by the support of community partners including Valley Star Credit Union, Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department, the Roanoke Firefighters Association Local 1132, and Sirens and Salutes. A special thank you goes to Wells Fargo for generously opening their facilities to host this community event.

The Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is not a race, but a tribute. Each step taken is a reminder of the sacrifices made on that tragic day, and each bell rung is a promise that the names and legacies of those who perished will never be forgotten.

- Photos courtesy of Roanoke Fire & EMS

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS: 2026

EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO

October 22–24, 2026 |Mohegan Sun, CT - Specialized Pre-Conferences: October 21, 2026

The 2026 EMS & Fire PRO Expo invites experienced and dynamic presenters to share their knowledge, expertise, and innovative ideas with EMS, fire, and first responder professionals from across the country.

Now Accepting Presentation Proposals: We are seeking cutting-edge and engaging presentations that reflect the most current practices, research, and trends in the emergency services industry.

Presentation Categories: Proposals are encouraged in the following focus areas: Basic Clinical: Foundational patient care, assessment, and treatment techniques; Advanced Clinical: Complex or specialized medical and trauma care, innovations in pre-hospital medicine, and emerging clinical technologies; Operations: Incident management, safety, interoperability, and field operations.; Educators: Instructional methods, classroom innovation, simulation, and professional development; General: Topics of broad interest across EMS and fire disciplines, including wellness, culture, and workforce development; Administrative/Leadership: Strategic planning, leadership development, budgeting, personnel management, and policy; Fire-Based Classes: Fireground operations, tactics, suppression, prevention, and firefighter health and safety; Fire Based Hands-On Training Sessions: Interactive, skill-based programs offering attendees practical experience in controlled training environments. Specialized Pre-Conference Events - October 21, 2026;featuring two focused learning opportunities: Pediatric Symposium: Sessions designed to enhance care and advocacy for pediatric patients (pre-hospital and emergency); and Weathering the Storm –Preparedness Summit: A full-day program addressing disaster response.

Submission Details: Presenters should submit session proposals that are interactive, relevant, and evidence based. Content should be designed to inform, inspire, and empower participants to elevate their professional practice. Submit proposals through the EMS & Fire Pro Portal found on the presenter tab of our website www.emspro.org.

Estepp announced that CFSI Director of Government Affairs Michaela Campbell, a seasoned leader with a strong track record, will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director. “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services,” said Estepp. “I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”

Deadline & Selection: All proposals must be received by January 30, 2026. Submissions will be reviewed by the EMS & Fire PRO Expo Education Committee.Share your expertise, connect with peers, and make an impact at the 2026 EMS & Fire PRO Expo Contact Information: www.emspro.org | info@emspro.org.

Fire News National Award; EMS Leader of the Year Honored

Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Fire News National Award for EMS Leader of the year to Chief Jean Helmandollar. Jean is a member of Stafford County Fire Rescue/Rockhill VRS. She was nominated as she is consistently in the top 10 runners for each month. Chief Helmandollar is currently serving as the Rescue Chief/Paramedic. She brings wisdom and sound judgement and her opinion is well respected as she continues to build a foundation for continued volunteer service in Stafford County.

The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Jean Helmandollar was one of 8 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Robert Eaby.

Fire News National Award; Junior Member of the Year Honored

Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Fire News National Award for Junior Member of the year to Brayzhon Graham. Brayzhon is a member of Stafford County Fire Rescue/Falmouth VFD since 2022 and would walk 2 miles to get to the station and served 766 hours the following year. He was nominated due to his dedication to the station and obtaining his certifications including Firefighter (FFI, Firefighter II, Hazmats op & Mayday) and as an EMT.

The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Brayzhon was one of 8 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Robert Eaby.

Fire News National Award; Pioneer of the Year Honored

Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Fire News National Award for Pioneer of the year to Patricia Copeland. Patricia is a member of Stafford County Fire Rescue/Aquia Harbour VRS since 1992. She was nominated due to her long-term commitment to mental health for the members. She has served as an EMT and Paramedic holding multiple ranks including Rescue Chief. Patricia is the Team Leader for the Regional Critical Incident Stress Management Team and has been the catalyst for the success of that team. She is an instructor and suicide prevention advocate and has been an integral part of the Stafford County Fire Rescue Chaplain Team which provides assistance to our members. It is because of Patricia that mental health for the members is priority and will continue to be so for many years.

The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Patricia Copeland was one of 8 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Robert Eaby.

Fire News National Award; Probie of the Year

Honored

Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Fire News National Award for Probie of the Year to Dillon Sanders. Dillon is a Firefighter/EMT-B of Loudoun County Fire and Rescue since 2022. He was nominated because he has continuously demonstrated the benefits of hard work, dedication, and discipline. He pushes to drill every day and motivates other members of the shift to do the same. He has a passion to train to be a master at his craft for the citizens and visitors of Loudoun County.

The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Dillon Sanders was one of 8 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Joshua Grabiak.