East Haven Paramedics Tried To Save Fallen Firefighter's Life: Mayor

EAST HAVEN, CT —East Haven Mayor Joseph A Carfora released a statement on the tragic death of North Haven firefighter Matthias Wirtz who lost his life in the line of duty Monday. East Haven first responders tried to save his life.

Carfora wrote:

"In the early morning hours of December 26th, I was notified by Fire Chief Marcarelli that personnel from our department were assisting North Haven at a structure fire as part of our mutual aid agreement. He went on to give me the very sad news that it appeared a Firefighter from North Haven had succumbed to injuries sustained in the course of his duties. I was immediately impacted by the profound sadness learning of the passing of Firefighter Matthias Wirtz not only because of the time of year, but also because of the sacrifices first responders make which in many instances includes sacrificing their own lives. I was also informed, and extremely proud that our East Haven Firefighter / Paramedics were directly involved in attempting to resuscitate Firefighter Wirtz.

On behalf of the Town of East Haven I express my sincerest condolences to Firefighter Wirtz’s Family and to his brother and sister firefighters.

Earlier I had a phone conversation with North Haven First Selectman Freda to offer condolences to
his entire community, but to also offer any resources our town can provide leading up to the services for Firefighter Wirtz.

Chief Marcarelli has assured me that the East Haven Firefighters working at this tragedy and involved in the rescue have been provided with all the services the department can provide to help them deal with the loss of this brother firefighter."

Marcarelli took to Facebook to share the news Monday.

"At 01:23 am the East Haven Fire Department responded to North Haven at 27 Quinnipiac Avenue to assist with a mutual aid structure fire and on arrival were immediately directed to render aid to a downed firefighter. Personnel from Squad 5 and Truck 3 worked at this attempt until care was transferred to a Nelson Ambulance crew who transported the Firefighter to the Hospital where he succumbed. On behalf of the town and department our deepest sympathies to the Town of North Haven and its Fire Department. All East Haven responders are doing well despite the experience."