Fall River Marked 39 Years Since Lieutenant Bernard’s Line-of-Duty Death

Fall River, MA — October 20 — Fall River Firefighters remembered Lieutenant Paul R. Bernard, an 11-year department veteran who died in the line of duty during a fire at 749 Quequechan Street on October 20, 1987.

Bernard was assigned to Engine 4 and was working at the fire when he died from smoke asphyxiation. The Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts’ line-of-duty death roster recorded that he ran out of air at the scene. 

The incident was reported as a fire at Roma Color Inc., a facility on Quequechan Street. In a statement entered into the Congressional Record days after the incident, U.S. Rep. Barney Frank recognized Bernard as an 11-year veteran and shared condolences with his family and fellow firefighters. 

Bernard’s service continued to be recognized in Fall River. The north-end fire station was named in his honor and memory, serving as a lasting reminder of his commitment to the department and the community.

Lieutenant Bernard was one of 24 Fall River fire service members remembered for making the ultimate sacrifice, according to the department’s memorial statement. The October 20 remembrance honored Bernard’s service and recognized the lasting impact of his loss on his family, friends and fellow firefighters.