A Central Alexander firefighter died after he collapsed at the station Monday night.

Eric "Bubba" Pennell suffered a medical medical emergency while at the station and was rushed to the hospital, according to local television station WBTV. 

Pennell later died at the hospital.

He was a member of Central Alexander Fire Department Station 30 in Taylorsville. 

"We ask that you please keep The Pennell Family as well as The Central Alexander / Taylorsville Fire Department in your thoughts and prayers," the department posted on their Facebook page.

"Bubba was doing what he absolutely loved... Protecting the citizens and business owners of Taylorsville was his first priority," friend Bob Benfield posted on Facebook." That is exactly what he was doing when the Lord called him home this afternoon. Rest easy my friend, we will cover your watch from here.