David Mackie, a paramedic with the Orange City, Florida Fire Department, collapsed during a firefighter training class on Tuesday, January 27, at Seminole Community College.
According to Captain Herb Hoffman Jr., David Mackie, 35, had just completed a run in his training class, and reached down to grab something out of his equipment bag. "As he was reaching over, he fell and collapsed on the ground."
Mackie had been a full-time paramedic with the Orange City Fire Department for the last ten months. He previously served as a volunteer firefighter with the Volusia County Fire Service.
Mackie was remembered fondly by his co-workers. Captain Hoffman described him as, "a real loveable guy, a small man with a big heart". He said Mackie was the kind of man that would do anything for you.
According to Captain Hoffman, preliminary tests seem to indicate that Mackie died of a heart attack. However, a full investigation is under way.
Mackie is survived by his mother and sister.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:Visitation: Friday, January 30 at Deltona Memorial Funeral Home, 1295 Saxon Blvd, Orange City, Fl from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Funeral services will be Saturday, January 31 at the Deltona Alliance Church, 921 Deltona Blvd, Deltona, Fl at 11 a.m. followed by a funeral procession to Deltona Memorial Gardens for grave site service and internment.
