Volunteer Rhode Island firefighter dies just hours after responding to calls

A Rhode Island firefighter has died after responding to several calls just hours prior.

According to the United States First Responders Association, on Wednesday, Richmond-Carolina (RI) Firefighter Robert “Bob” Thomas Gardner, Jr., was at the fire station putting apparatus and equip back in service, following a residential fire call. He then returned home. In the night, he suffered an apparent heart attack and passed away.

Gardener was a 15-year volunteer with the department.

Fire Chief Scott Barber was understandably shaken by the news.

“It is with deepest regret that I announce the passing of Past Deputy Chief Robert T. Gardner Jr., as Chief, this is by far the hardest announcement to make. In a small community such as Richmond, our firefighters are family, friends and neighbors and we are very dedicated to assisting our community, this untimely passing comes within 12 hours of our members fighting a building fire and having to deal with other serious incidents during this time period.
Please keep his family and his fellow firefighters in your thoughts and prayers as we all process and deal with the loss of our brother.”