A veteran Kern County firefighter died hours after completing a busy, strenuous 48-hour shift last week.
Brian Massey, 56, was a fire engineer with Kern County Fire Department.
Massey began his a 48-hour shift at Station 22 in Maricopa on May 18. He took part in a strenuous wildland firefighting class and responded to several emergency calls during his shift.
On May 20, after he completed his shift, Massey suffered a significant medical event while at home. He was transported to a local hospital where he passed away.
The cause of his death is still under investigation.
Massey started with Kern County in May 2007 after beginning his fire service career with the Taft in 1990.
A Celebration of Life was held for Massey May 26.
Massey is survived by his three children Brooke, Breanna, and Brandon; grandchildren Kinidie and Kenzington; his girlfriend, Glenna Seely; Glenna's children Jason, Shannon and Haley; Glenna's grandchildren Nolan and Grady; and his parents Dale and Karen Massey and brothers Brett and Todd.
The U.S. Fire Administration confirmed Massey's passing as an on-duty death May 26.
