Tragic firefighter deaths in berks county accident

Two dedicated firefighters lost their lives in a devastating accident Saturday night, leaving their community in shock and grief.

Walnuttown fire chief jeff buck and assistant chief robert shick remembered for heroism

Sharon Buck, the widow of Chief Jeff Buck, described her brother-in-law as 'a hero' who had devoted his life to firefighting, joining the department as a teenager and rising through the ranks.

'Just a hero. He was a hero,' Sharon said. 'He was selfless when it came to taking care of other people, helping other people. If there was a problem, he was there, in a heartbeat.'

The firefighters were involved in a search for a missing woman when a Toyota Camry struck their vehicles on Kutztown Road. The driver, Alexander Sepulveda Rivera, initially fled the scene but was later apprehended.

According to court documents, Rivera claimed to have fallen asleep at the wheel, but investigators found a crack pipe and marijuana in the car. He also lacked a valid license and had a warrant outstanding at the time of the incident.

The Walnuttown fire department is currently mourning the loss of Buck and Shick, with black bunting draped over the station, fire trucks, and the men's lockers. Officials say neighboring departments will cover their duties until at least Saturday, giving the crew time to process their grief.

'We're sticking together,' said Lt. Ryan Tyson. 'It's pretty much all we can do right now.'

Buck and Shick's funeral arrangements have not been announced, but their community has rallied to support the department in this difficult time.