The Highway Patrol says Chevy Gall, 16, was responding to a water rescue call Friday afternoon when his car crossed the center line and hit another vehicle.
Gall was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries. The driver of the other car, a 30 year old man, was treated at the hospital.
Beaufort-Leslie Fire Chief Terry Feth says Gall was a volunteer, driving his personal vehicle.
“Chevy died while answering the call to help others. This is every fire chief’s worst nightmare,” said Feth. “We are devastated by this loss, and our entire department is grieving. Chevy was part of our family, and our hearts are with his loved ones, friends, and our fellow first responders during this incredibly difficult time.”
This marks the first line-of-duty death in the department’s history.
The Gall family issued the following statement:
“We want to express our deepest thanks to the bystanders who stopped to lend aid at the crash scene, the members of the Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District, and the Gerald Ambulance District for their support, care, and compassion. Chevy was proud to serve his community, and we are shattered by his loss.”