Ohio firefighter killed in line of duty

West Salem, Ohio — Earlier this week, Lt. Philip Wigal, who served with the Town and County Fire District in West Salem, was killed while responding to an accident.

Now, departments in neighboring communities are doing all they can to help, including the Ashland Fire Department.

Nic Schwan from Ashland Fire said the department will host its 49th annual Pancake Day fundraiser and donate all of the funds to Wigal’s family and department. 

“What affects one department affects us all,” Schwan said. “We are a brother and sisterhood, whether we are volunteer, part time or full time, we all feel the loss in the community.” 

The Ashland Fire Department works closely with the Town and Country Fire District and assisted during Wigal’s accident. 

“We took an engine and a medic to help Town and Country and some of our guys were on that scene helping at that time,” he explained. “Several groups of us at different times throughout the day had talked about taking Saturday’s proceeds, 100% of every dollar that comes in, and that’s going to go to the lieutenant’s family.” 

Along with supporting Wigal’s family through their fundraiser, Ashland continues to support Town and Country in various ways throughout this difficult time. 

“As a matter of fact, myself and my assistant chief, last night we worked 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. last night at Town and Country Fire Department,” he explained. “Making sure those calls were covered so those guys didn’t have to worry about going on emergency calls. They have enough going on.” 

If you would like to show support and attend pancake day, it will be held this Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon at the Ashland Central Fire Station. 

If you can’t make it to the event, you can donate directly to the fund for Wigal by mailing it to 274 Cleveland Ave. in Ashland and address the envelope in care of Ashland Professional Firefighters Local 1386.