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The community in Berks County, Pennsylvania, gathered on Saturday (April 11) to pay their respects to two fallen firefighters, Walnuttown Fire Chief Jeff Buck and Assistant Chief Robert Shick. The pair, described as best friends, tragically lost their lives earlier this month while assisting in a search for a missing person. They were struck by another vehicle on Route 222 in Richmond Township.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags across the state to fly at half-staff in their honor. He invited all Pennsylvanians to join in remembering Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick, saying, "May their memories forever be a blessing." Flags will remain lowered until their interment date, which is yet to be announced.
The driver responsible for the crash, a New York man, faces charges including vehicular homicide while DUI and involuntary manslaughter. He is currently jailed in Berks County on outstanding warrants.
The loss of Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick has deeply affected the local community and the Walnuttown Fire Company. Governor Shapiro expressed his support for the fire company, stating, "We stand ready to support as they mourn the loss of two of their brothers in uniform."
For more information, visit the Reading Eagle, MSN, and Forever Cumberland.