Warren, Rhode Island Firefighter Collapses At Fire; Later Dies

WARREN, R.I. (AP) -- Warren firefighters are mourning the loss of one of their own.

Richard O'Brien died Friday. He was a veteran Warren firefighter and a former Town Council president.

The Providence Journal reports that O'Brien was responding to a kitchen fire at one of the properties he owns on Water Street. O'Brien opened a few windows to let heavy smoke out of the kitchen, then collapsed.

Fire Chief Alexander Galinelli said a Warren rescue truck took O'Brien to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The 63-year-old was described by friends as a dedicated public servant and family man.

State police are investigating the incident. The only damage to the building was smoke damage on the third floor.

Related:

• Funeral Information and Obituary for Richard O'Brien
• Warren Firefighter Collapses at Fire; Later Pronounced Dead