Monday 22 September 2014

US firefighter Tony Grider dies after participating in ice bucket challange near power lines


Captain Tony Grider and a fellow firefighter suffered electric shocks as they poured water on the local University’s marching band for the ALS ice bucket challenge.

The 41-year-old died on Saturday of injuries sustained during the incident.

Eric Johnson from Supporting Heroes said in a statement: “It is with deep regret we notify you of the line-of-duty death of Campbellsville, Kentucky Fire Captain Tony Grider.

"Please keep the Grider and Campbellsville Fire families in your thoughts and prayers,”

Local media reported that a procession with several emergency response vehicles took Mr Grider's body from the University of Louisville hospital to Columbia, Kentucky. 

David Beckham and many others participated on the ice bucket challenge 

He and 22-year-old firefighter Simon Quinn were on the fire truck's ladder when it got too close to a power line after dumping water on Campbellsville University's marching band.

They were taking part in the charity stunt to raise awareness and funds to fight the disease ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord.

Mr Quinn was released from hospital on September 15.

Two other firefighters were injured in the August 21 incident, but were not seriously hurt. Mr Grider, an 11-year veteran of the service who was promoted to captain in October 2013, leaves a widow, Gena, and two young sons. Many tributes have been paid to him on Facebook.

In her message, Vicki Self Curry represented the feelings of many, saying: "Our prayers for the Grider family on their loss and the firefighter men, women on the loss of their Captain. May God forever bless and watch over you all."

The local charity Supporting Heroes announced the death and also expressed sorrow. Steven Boucouvalas responded: "Rest in Peace Brother Grider your dedication to service and your last alarm will never be forgotten. thoughts and prayers are with your family and fellow 'jakes' at this difficult time!"

The accident happened after the firefighters had sprayed the students with cold water on one of the athletic fields. By the time it happened the students had gone and none of them was injured.

Power was knocked out for about an hour to 4,500 customers, including the school, according to a spokeswoman for Kentucky Utilities.

Millions of dollars have been raised by people pouring ice cold water over their heads and donating money to the charity.

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