Berkeley Heights, NJ — April 11th — Foreman Kevin Apuzzio of the East Franklin Fire Department passed away at the age of 21 while trying to save a trapped civilian during a structure fire, according to the Berkeley Heights Fire Department, 411 Hamilton Ave. Apuzzio was killed when circumstances changed while he was working during an internal search.

His actions demonstrated the dangers associated with main search operations and the fire service's emphasis on life safety. Training courses that emphasize situational awareness, accountability, and firefighter survival still make mention to the incident. Through yearly memory events and ongoing focus on operational discipline and risk management on the fireground, departments throughout the region honor his sacrifice.