Dauphin County, PA, Fire Chief Dies after Teaching at Wildland Fire Academy

Dave Warfel, a Dauphin County volunteer fire chief, who worked as a supervisor at a Pennsylvania state forest, died Thursday at a Cumberland County fire academy, according to a press release.

Warfel, the forest district maintenance supervisor at Weiser State Forest, died at the Wildland Fire Academy at Shippensburg University after a day of mentoring and teaching wildland firefighters.

The Cumberland County Coroner’s Office is investigating Warfel’s death. Neither Warfel’s age, nor information about the circumstances around Warfel’s death were provided.

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn offered condolences and thanked Warfel for his service.

 “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dave Warfel, whose dedication to public service was unwavering throughout his life. Beginning as a volunteer firefighter at a young age, his commitment to protecting communities and our natural resources never wavered. He was a respected and invaluable leader within the wildland firefighting community and made lasting contributions to DCNR through his expertise, professionalism, and leadership.

Adams Dunn called Warfel a friend and “cherished colleague.”

“His camaraderie, integrity, and kindness enriched the lives of all who had the privilege to work alongside him. The entire DCNR family mourns this tremendous loss and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Warfel also worked as the Carsonville Volunteer Fire Company chief in Dauphin County. The fire company posted the following statement to their Facebook page:

“It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing of our beloved fire chief, David Warfel. David started his volunteering in his teens as a member of Powells Valley Fire Co then Carsonville Fire Co, and Halifax Fire Dept. He was always a cheerful, musical, funny guy, you couldn’t make it through an event without him singing a little at some point. A great man and staple of the community has been lost but will always be remembered. Please keep Dave’s family, friends and fire company families in your thoughts and prayers.”

Over 400 people are participating in the fire academy at Shippensburg University, which offers hands-on training designed to simulate wildfire conditions.

Weiser State Forest has a 30,000-acre footprint that spans seven counties, including Dauphin, in the central and eastern part of the state.

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