As Fairax County, Va. Chief Richard Bowers attends the funeral of a fallen colleague in Maryland today, another firefighter is on his mind – one of his own.
Fairfax County Firefighter/Paramedic Nicole Mittendorf has been missing since this time last week.
The three-year veteran failed to show up for work last Friday, and a missing person’s report was filed by her husband, Steve, a Virginia State Police sergeant.
“We’re still looking and still hoping. We have no clue where she is,” Bowers told Firehouse.com.
A candlelight vigil is set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Fire Station 32 at 5600 Burke Centre Parkway, Fairfax Station, Va.
The public is invited to attend.
The chief said it’s been a difficult time for his firefighters as they mourn the loss of Prince George’s County FF/Paramedic John Ulmschneider. And now, they worry about their co-worker.
Mittendorf’s last contact with her family was last Wednesday. Her car was found in a parking lot at Shenandoah National Park Saturday evening.
An extensive search has been conducted in the vast, rural park. But, nothing has been located.
An urban search and rescue team, comprised of her colleagues, were requested, and are participating in the operation.
“There’s really rugged terrain in that park,” Bowers said.
During an emotional press conference in a fire station Tuesday, Bowers and Mittendorf’s husband pleaded for anyone with information to call. A Facebook page dedicated to finding her also has been established.
Bowers described Mittendorf as a good, caring person.
“We’re just praying for the best…”
