Firefighter Killed in the Line of Duty in Laurel Identified

Laurel: Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins, who served for 23 years, was identified as the firefighter who died while fighting a house fire. He was 46 and leaves behind a wife and two kids.

On Saturday evening, Higgins was part of a mutual aid operation with Prince George’s County firefighters. He was driving the first ladder truck when he experienced a medical emergency during the firefighting efforts.

Sadly, he was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

His family is currently making arrangements, and the community has shown tremendous support. Fire Chief Corey Smedley mentioned that they’re giving firefighters the time they need to cope with this loss.

Battalion Chief Rafael Gibson, who worked closely with Higgins, described him as a beloved friend and an exceptional firefighter. The fire itself started in the carport and spread to the house, affecting a neighbor’s property as well. About 50 firefighters worked for half an hour to control the blaze, and the cause is still being investigated.