Watertown Fire Chief Dies

WATERTOWN, MA – Watertown Fire Chief Mario Orangio has died, the Watertown firefighter union announced Tuesday. Orangio announced his decision to step down in May after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer late last year. Citing health issues, Orangio told the Town Council, "It is time to pass the reins."

Orangio served as chief for 13 years; he had been with the department since 1989.

"This will undoubtedly leave a hole in the hearts of the hundreds of us that have been fortunate enough to work with him through decades of service," the firefighter union wrote on Facebook.

Image via Watertown Fire Department