Deep Creek Lake firefighters are mourning the loss of a dedicated colleague.

On July 5, Deep Creek Chief Engineer Eugene Cervi, 60, drove apparatus to a possible water rescue and assisted with deploying the department's vessel. Crews were involved in the operation for about two hours.

At about 3 a.m., Cervi suffered an apparent cardiovascular event. He was transported to a local hospital where he died, the U.S. Fire Administration reported Wednesday.

He had been involved in the fire service for 40 years.

"Eugene’s service, sacrifice, and devotion will never be forgotten. His loss is deeply felt by our fire company, our families, our emergency services partners, and the community we are honored to serve," Deep Creek fire officials wrote in a statement posted to Facebook.

Funeral arrangments are pending.

On July 5, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Chief Engineer Eugene Cervi drove the Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Company apparatus in response to a possible water rescue. Once on scene, he assisted with the deployment of the department’s boat. The incident concluded around 8:00 p.m. At approximately 3:00 a.m. on July 6, 2026, Chief Engineer Cervi suffered a cardiovascular event and was taken to a hospital where he passed away later that day.