Trending Topics

LODD: S.C. deputy chief dies after responding to 2 calls

Moncks Corner Deputy Chief Jimmy Townsend suffered a fatal cardiac event within 24 hours of two emergency calls

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — Berkeley County officials report that Jimmy Townsend, deputy chief of the Moncks Corner Rural Fire Department, died in the line of duty on Sept. 28.

The cause of death has not yet been released, according to Central Berkeley Fire & EMS Assistant Chief Colt Roy.

Townsend devoted over 30 years to the fire service, starting with the Moncks Corner Rural Fire Department in November 1990, according to WCSC.

“Throughout his career, he was a steadfast leader, mentor, and friend who stood as a cornerstone of the Berkeley County and South Carolina firefighting community,” Roy said. “His passing leaves a void that can never truly be filled.”

Roy said more information will be released later as memorial service plans are still being finalized.

Trending
After a delayed response to a fire, a welder designed a lower-cost skid unit for homeowners, though officials warn residents not to fight fires themselves
A new 7,000-square-foot addition allows the Vintage Fire Museum to showcase more historic fire trucks and artifacts as it launches a campaign to finish fundraising
Smith Valley Fire Chief Amy Beick says the moment highlights growing representation in the fire service and aims to inspire more women to join
State officials allege Clinton Fire Chief Michael Lutes steered overtime opportunities to his son and blocked an impartial investigation into misconduct
Company News
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and Congressional Fire Services Institute honored Bill Webb and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network at the 2026 National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium

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.