BOTETOURT – A Botetourt County volunteer firefighter who was responding to an accident on Friday has died. Saturday County officials release a statement about his death.
Roger D. Johns, 63, of Eagle Rock, was serving as a ground guide when a fire department vehicle backed into him at 3:10 p.m., according to Virginia State Police.
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The Eagle Rock Fire Department responded to a single-vehicle crash on Route 220 at its intersection with Catawba Creek Road.
A 55-year-old fire department employee was backing up a fire department vehicle to block the roadway when the vehicle hit Johns.
The driver of the fire truck was not injured in the crash.
Saturday on behalf of County Administrator Gary Larrowe and Botetourt County a statement about the death was released.
“Botetourt County is heartbroken with the loss of a volunteer firefighter who was killed in a tragic accident while providing support on the scene of an unrelated incident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his fellow volunteers who play a critical role in serving our community. Our primary focus at this time is on the well-being of his
family and our close-knit team of volunteer and professional firefighters. To that end, last night they received emergency counseling services and our community’s commitment to provide the support and resources they need to get through this difficult time. To help facilitate the healing process we ask that the privacy of the firefighter’s family and his colleagues be respected. Funeral arrangements have not yet been determined but we will communicate those details as they become available so our community can celebrate the life of a dedicated volunteer and come together to mourn a tremendous loss,” the statement said.
The crash remains under investigation. Charges are pending.