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A longtime Arizona fire chief died last week from a heart attack stemming from COVID-19.
Buckeye Fire Chief Bob Costello, 62, had been with the department since 2004, becoming chief in 2008. According to the city, Costello had contacted COVID-19, and he died Thursday from cardiac arrest related to complications from the virus, KTAR-TV reports.
“Chief Costello was a true visionary for Buckeye,” Mayor Eric Orsborn said in a statement. “His quiet, comforting personality made him a friend to everyone he met. … We are all still in shock over his sudden passing, but take comfort in knowing that his amazing contributions to Buckeye will have positive impacts on the city for years to come."
It is with incredible sadness to announce Bob Costello, Chief of Buckeye’s Fire and Medical Rescue Department has passed...
Posted by City Of Buckeye Fire Department on Thursday, April 8, 2021
Costello was recognized for his accomplishments throughout his career. He received the Buckeye Heroism Award from the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2016 and the Exemplary Service to Humanity award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion in 2019, according to the city.
One of the high points during his time with the department include setting up the Community Paramedicine Program with Banner Estrella Medical Center, a nationally recognized program that tried to bridge the gap between hospital discharge and a doctor follow-up for patients. Throughout the pandemic, Costello provided updates to the city's Executive Team and ensured the city followed health guidelines.
As we continue to honor the memory and impact of Buckeye Fire Chief Bob Costello, we highlight an accomplishment for...
Posted by City Of Buckeye Fire Department on Saturday, April 10, 2021
Costello served at various times between 2001 and 2020 on Arizona's Emergency Medical Services Council. He also was a member of the Patient Family Advisory Council.
"The hard work and outstanding efforts of Chief Costello will have positive impacts on Buckeye for years to come," the city stated in a release.
Costello is survived by his wife and a brother.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. (local time) at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Peoria, and it can be watched during a live stream that can be seen here.
