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LODD: Pa. chief dies from surgery complications related to brush fire injury

Harford Assistant Chief Edward Chideser fractured his leg while battling a brush fire in March

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Assistant Chief Edward R. “Chip” Chidester.

Bartron-Myer Funeral Home

HARFORD, Pa. — The United States Fire Administration announced the on-duty death of a Harford assistant chief related to injuries he sustained during a brush fire on March 11.

Assistant Chief Edward “Chip” Chidester died on April 27 due to complications from surgeries for an injury he sustained fighting the brushfire.

WBNG reported earlier that during the fire, Chidester fell and seriously fractured his leg.

Chidester had been a member of the department for over 40 years.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.