North Texas

Weatherford Firefighter Dies in Line of Duty

Andy Loller suffered a medical emergency while fighting fires in West Texas

A North Texas firefighter died Sunday while fighting wild fires in West Texas, officials say.

Andy Loller of the Weatherford Fire Department suffered a medical emergency  while looking for hotspots.

"It's very strenuous activity and you're dealing with atmospheric heat and the fire itself," said Weatherford Assistant Fire Chief Jonathan Peacock. "It was tragic. Just the same as losing a family member."

The Weatherford fire marshal told NBC 5 that Loller was in good health. He was transported to a hospital in Odessa after he experienced chest pains. 

"He loved the fire service... and always gave it his all," Peacock said. "He will be sorely missed."

Loller and another member of the Weatherford Fire Department had been had been fighting wildfires in the Davis Mountains since June 6. The U.S. Forest Service says up to 18 blazes have been reported in the area this wildfire season.

"We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Andy's passing," said Weatherford city manager Sharon Hayes. "He will be sorely missed by the community and all who knew and worked with him. Our prayers are with his family at this time."

Loller's body is being escorted to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office, the procession will make its way through Abilene, Eastland, Ranger and Weatherford before arriving in Fort Worth.

Authorities are awaiting an autopsy for official cause of death. Loller was 42 years old, he's survived by his wife and two children.

The Parker County Firefighter Benevolent Fund is collecting donations for Loller's family via Paypal or the donate button on the PCFBF Facebook page.

Checks made out to the Parker County Firefighter Fun are also being accepted via mail, just put Loller Family in the memo line and send to:

Parker County Firefighter Benevolent Fund, Inc.
P.O. Box 1208
Weatherford, TX 76086

MORE: Parker County Firefighter Benevolent Fund, Inc. Donation Page | PCFBF on Facebook

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