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LODD: Pa. fire police officer suffers cardiac arrest while responding to call

Richlandtown Fire Police Officer Todd Koch died after suffering a respiratory emergency and cardiac arrest while responding to a call

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Fire Police Officer Todd Koch.

Richlandtown Fire Company/Facebook

RICHLANDTOWN BOROUGH, Pa. — Fire Police Officer Todd Koch of the Richlandtown Fire Company died on March 9 after suffering a severe respiratory attack that led to cardiac arrest while responding to an emergency call, the department said in a Facebook post.

According to the department, fellow responders began immediate lifesaving efforts and continued treatment, but Koch succumbed to the medical emergency.

“Koch was a dedicated and valued member of the Richlandtown Fire Company,” the post said, noting his commitment and pride in serving the community.

The department asked the public to keep Koch’s family and the fire company’s members in their thoughts and prayers.

The fire company said additional information about funeral arrangements and services will be released when available.

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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.