LODD in Prince William County, VA

[DCFIRE325]

Once again it would appear that Firehouse.com is about the headline vs. the content. I am well aware of the tremendous tragedy that occurred at Virginia Tech, HOWEVER a FIREMAN was killed this morning and that is not the top headline? C'mon guys! Is this not a FIRE department oriented website or does it just report tragic news?

Disgraceful.

[JHR1985]

.... I still think the mass shooting would outweigh the death on a firemen. But, it still should up there

[DCFIRE325]

.... I still think the mass shooting would outweigh the death on a firemen




Are you even a fireman?

[Epinephrine]

Is there any info on what company the FF worked for and/or any details of what happened?

[DCFIRE325]

He was assigned to a ladder truck performing search operations. There were unconfirmed reports of family members (4 adults, 3 children) that were unaccounted for. At some point he became separated from his crew as they were exiting the building.

The building was a large (approx 3000 sq ft) single family detached home.




http://www.potomacnews.com/servlet/...350761589&path=

http://www.nbc4.com/news/12154683/d...l=headlineclick

http://www.wusa9.com/news/news_arti...x?storyid=57584

[jacklrd]

Rest well

[HotTrotter]

I can't tell you which one should receive top billing. They both suck. A tragedy is a tragedy. Both involve emregency services, both are highly news worthy. And before you throw too many stones, how about the forestry chief from CA?

Also, remember that the site is run by a media company. Just food for thought

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who have lost loved ones on this most tragic day.

[vegas0012]

That's unfortunate the LODD coincided with this tragic event. Hopefully his story won't be swept to the wayside. As to Firehouse's previous practice of headlining with a minor story over the Chicago FF's death, I agree. It was a mistake.

This one is a little greyer I think just with the scope of this incident, but I think people understand what you're saying. My prayers to the firefighter and his family and crew.

[Jasper 45]

My deepest condolences.


Please update as they occur.

[OSD122]

This was a rookie, career Firefighter detailed to O.W.L VFD's Tower 512.

[erics99]

RIP.

I've had similar complaints in the past that I've emailed the website for. This is nothing unusual. "Parolee Accused in Illinois Blaze" is even above the story if that means anything. To me it's a lack of respect, but maybe some will disagree? Rarely is a LODD the very top headline.

[DCFIRE325]

Hottrotter, you're previous postings in other threads sum up the quality of individual that you are and I think that they speak for themselves.

Kyle Wilson, age 19 was on the job for several months with Prince William County. Rescue efforts were hampered by a flashover and subsequent collapse of portions of the home.

[callaway75]

RIP brother. Good Night, Sleep Well.

[DCFIRE325]

Statment provided by Prince William County Fire and Rescue Chief. . .

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mary Beth's Statement:

Prince William County, Virginia
Statement for Fire and Rescue Chief Mary Beth Michos
April 16, 2007
News Conference – Firefighter Fatality

This morning at approximately 6 am our department suffered a tragic loss of one of our own in the line of duty. And so, as Fire and Rescue Chief, I regret to announce the death of Technician I Kyle R. Wilson who died fighting a house fire on Marsh Overlook Drive in Woodbridge.

This is the first time in our 41-year history for a line of duty fatality. As a Department, our grief knows no bounds. I made personal notification to Technician Wilson’s family this morning and conveyed our deepest sympathy and sadness for their immense loss on behalf of the department. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. We will continue to do everything we can to support them during this difficult time.

I also want to acknowledge the heroic efforts of Technician Wilson’s fellow firefighters who risked their own lives to in efforts to save his.

• Tech Wilson is a long-time County resident.
o Is 24 years old and attended County schools
o Joined department January 2006
o Assigned to OWL Station 12

• He is survived by his parents, brother, sister and girlfriend who live locally

• We have resources in place to help department members deal with this tragedy.

• The Department has seen an outpouring of help and support both within the County and from our neighboring jurisdictions as well as other community groups.

• We also appreciate all of the citizens who have offered condolences and support.

• We are in the process of doing a complete investigation as is our policy using both internal and external resources.

I want to ask you to please respect the family’s wishes to not speak to the media at this time. Any requests should be directed from the Department of Fire and Rescue.
Despite all our efforts to provide the best training and equipment, there are still risks that our firefighters face everyday. This is very sad day for Technician Wilson’s family, the Department, the County and all firefighters everywhere.

[JHR1985]

This is truly a sad event. But, there is a difference between this and the Chicago story and that was the Chicago story was outranked by a story of a Dog Rescue.

It is a sad deal that this gets ranked behind another story and it should be up at the top, which it nearly is now, just one below the shooting incident. I believe the webteam replied in the last thread started about an issue like this. Have you tried to email the webteam with your complaints? Good luck with that one. Hell, its a sad deal that this death will barely make the local news, let alone the nation.

[MIKEYLIKESIT]

Rest in Peace Brother Wilson.

[ARH176]

Condolences to both of Tech. Wilson's families.

Alan

[DeputyChiefGonzo]

My condolences go out to the family of Kyle Wilson and Occoquan- Woodbridge -Lorton Station 12, Prince William County FD.

Rest in peace, Brother

[Dickey]

Rest in peace my brother.

My prayers go out to the rest of the brothers of Prince William County FD.

[Remthedays]

Rest in peace brother.

My prayers and thoughts to his family and the members of the F.D..

T.J.