Community Rallies For Family Of ‘Critically Injured’ OC Firefighter

IRVINE, CA — The family of an Orange County firefighter sought the public's help, after dedicated firefighter and new father Matthew Nichols was critically injured while serving his community on Sept. 19.

Nichols was injured on the journey back to base camp after pulling a shift battling the Airport Fire burning in Orange and Riverside counties.

According to a previous Patch report, the OCFA vehicle Nichols was traveling on the 241 Toll Road and swerved before overturning. Nichols was left in a coma and remains fighting for his life with his wife, Carissa, and his newborn son, Theodore, at his side, according to a GoFundMe for the Nichols family.

While the cause of the crash remained under investigation, ABC 7 reported that the collision was triggered by a ladder left in the road. OC fire officials could not confirm this report.

"Matthew and Carissa have a 6-month-old son, Theodore, who brings light into their lives even during this incredibly dark time," the GoFundMe reads. "As Carissa spends her days in the hospital, she is facing overwhelming emotional and financial challenges, balancing the care of her baby with the uncertainty of Matthew’s condition."

Money accrued from the GoFundMe will be used to help cover child care and other urgent needs for the Nichols family.

"Matthew has always been a protector, both for his family and his community. Now, it's our turn to support him and his loved ones," the GoFundMe reads.

To help support the Nichols family through this difficult time, visit the verified GoFundMe page.