KENNEWICK, Wash.-- For many in Kennewick's Fire Station one, this was unexpected especially for somebody so young.
Thirty-eight-year-old Eric Lyons' death is still undetermined.
We do know that last night he and other firefighters went out to a fire.
Things we're described as normal when they came back, but shortly thereafter, Lyons experienced medical problems.
They tried administering medical aid to Lyons and he was transported to Kennewick General early this morning.
They were unable to resuscitate him and he was pronounced dead at one-twelve this morning.
We talked with Benton County Coroner Rick Corson today and he says an autopsy would occur either tonight or by tomorrow.
Still, this has shocked the Kennewick Fire Department.
"The station one crew that immediately provided assistance are taking it hard. It's one of their brothers on their shift but they're professionals and they're pretty good right now," said Neil Hines, Kennewick Fire Chief.
Prior to coming to Kennewick he served as a firefighter in Spokane and East Wenatchee.
He is survived by his parents and a brother in California.
They are expected to arrive in the Tri-Cities tomorrow.
The family and fire department is planning on starting a fund under his name.
There are also no plans yet on funeral arrangements.
We will give that information as soon as it comes available.
Republished with permission of KVEW-TV.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 12, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at the Three Rivers Convention Center, 7016 West Grandridge Boulevard, Kennewick, Washington 99336, (509) 735-9400. Questions can be directed to the Public Information Officer at (509) 942-7550 or [email protected]. A reception will immediately follow the service.
Agencies participating in the apparatus procession are asked to please contact Doreen DePalo at (509) 585-4564 to advise on the number of personnel/equipment you will be sending and to receive more detailed information; email: [email protected]
Donations to the family can be made at any branch of the HAPO Community Credit Union, (509) 943-5676 or mailed to Kennewick Firefighters Local 1296/Eric Lyons, P.O. Box 6764, Kennewick, WA 99336. Flowers are being accepted at Kennewick Fire Station 61, 600 South Auburn Street, Kennewick, WA 99336.