PENHOOK, Va. (WFXR) – On December 1, Gretna Fire & Rescue responded to a serious fire at a home belonging to a member of their own department.
“As first responders, our biggest fear is being on duty and hearing your address dispatched out for a call. Yesterday, Sunday, December 1st, that fear came true for one of our own.” – Gretna Fire & Rescue
According to a social media post, crews from multiple agencies were dispatched to Armstrong Road in Penhook after reports of a structure fire. On the scene, the home belonging to GFR member Bill VanGils was heavily engulfed in flames. VanGils was on duty and responded to the call.
The home was lost to the blaze. Firefighter, Bill VanGils also lost pets, as well as his best friend Jayne, who was the unofficial Gretna Fire & Rescue firehouse dog.
(Photo Credit: Gretna Fire & Rescue)
If you would like to assist the family, the Greta Fire & Rescue is taking donations at the station located at 122 E Gretna Road in Gretna.
WFXR News will update you with more information as it becomes available.