The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire Announces the Death of Battalion Chief John P. Walsh
PITTSBURGH, PA -- It is with immense sadness that the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire announces the passing of one of its own.
Battalion Chief John P. Walsh suffered a medical emergency while in command of a fire in the East Hills area of the city late Wednesday evening, November 20, 2024. His fellow firefighters, police, and medics immediately attended to him at the scene, but he tragically passed away at the hospital. John was 60 years old.
"John Walsh was a stabilizing force in the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. He was a master tactician on the fire ground and possessed a commanding presence, which generated confidence and respect from all those under his command. I would like to thank the members of C-Line, the Fire Investigation Unit, Pittsburgh EMS, and UPMC Presbyterian Hospital ER for their heroic efforts to save our Brother. He will be greatly missed," said Fire Chief Darryl Jones.
With 37 years of dedicated service to the Bureau of Fire and the City of Pittsburgh, Chief Walsh worked out of Station 8 in East Liberty and embodied the very best of what it means to be a firefighter and public servant.
"It is with deep sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, fellow firefighters, and public safety colleagues of Battalion Chief John Walsh. Chief Walsh dedicated nearly four decades of service to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, where his leadership, commitment, and unwavering courage made a profound impact on the safety of our city. His loss is not only a tragedy for his loved ones, but for our entire community," said Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt.
"The Department of Public Safety will provide any support needed by his colleagues and family who are mourning his loss. I would also like to thank the City of Pittsburgh EMS, Fire, and Police, as well as the staff at UPMC Presbyterian for their valiant efforts to save our colleague," added Schmidt.
John is survived by his wife Mary, his mother, and his father, himself a retired Battalion Chief with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire.
Details on service arrangements will be announced at a later time.
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