'End of Watch' Declared for Marble Falls, TX, Fire Chief Missing in Flood

July 16, 2025
Marble Falls Area Fire Chief Michael Phillips disappeared July 5 while responding to a call during historic flooding.

The Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department has announced the 'end of watch' for Chief Michael Phillips.

He has been missing since July 5 when he responded to a call for help during a devastating flood in Central Texas. His emergency vehicle was recovered.

"He was more than just a friend, mentor, and leader — he was our family. His absence will leave a void in our hearts and our department that cannot be filled. We will honor his legacy and the extraordinary service he gave to our community by continuing to be the first responders he strived for us to be," officers wrote on the department's Facebook page. 

Phillips, who served the department for nearly three decades, was a mentor, leader and friend.

The community has held vigils over the past weeks to honor him.  

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.