A dedicated firefighter died responding after a tornado touched down in Laurel County Friday night. 

The Laurel County Fire Department shared in a statement Saturday morning that Major Leslie Roger Leatherman "was fatally injured during his response to the devastating tornado."

Leatherman spent 39 years serving his community with the department, "answering the call to protect and help others in their most critical time of need. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Details around Leatherman's death have not been released. 

"This is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day and the incredible bravery they show in the face of disaster," the department shared.