Local Firefighter Dies in Tragic Crash
mrandolphadvance@gmail.com
Many within the area are mourning the loss of a hero and friend, as local firefighter Wesley Ward succumbed to injuries sustained in a car accident on Sunday, August 4.
According to authorities, Ward was involved in a single vehicle accident on Friday, August 2, outside of the Cedar Crossing community. During this accident, Ward’s truck completely flipped, leaving him with several serious injuries. He was taken to Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, where he later passed away.
Several local fire departments shared their sentiments in the loss, as they emphasized Ward’s service and dedication to the area.
“Wesley Ward was a man who had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. It is a great loss for all of us,” the Vidalia Fire Department shared in a written statement.
“Our hearts are completely broken with the passing of Wesley,” the Higgston Fire Department shared. “Wesley was an amazing person with a huge heart. He loved helping people and would give you the shirt off his back. He was a brave and selfless firefighter who dedicated his life to protecting our community. He served with unwavering courage, compassion, and commitment, putting the safety of others before his own. Wesley was a constant source of strength, guidance, and unconditional love. His infectious smile, quick wit, and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew him. He was a devoted firefighter/family member & friend who always made time to lend a listening ear or offer a helping hand.”
The Department continued, “Though we grieve the loss of this incredible individual, we are forever grateful for the time we shared and the lasting impact he made. Wesley’s legacy of bravery, service, and love will continue to inspire us, and he will forever be remembered as a true hero. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family and loved ones find comfort in the cherished memories they hold dear. Please continue to ride with us on every call and watch over us. It's going to be so different without you showing up.”
Lyons Fire Department Firefighter Luke Patrick also spoke on Ward. “He was a true American hero in the sense of being a servant,” Patrick emphasized. “If we can say one thing about Wesley, it was that he was always faithful and dependable. Even if it was just an event or to run a truck to free up another firefighter, he was there. He was very family-oriented, and worked to do what he could to make the community and fire departments better. His impact will continue within the community – there will be a generation that remembers his service and legacy, and uses it to inspire them to do their best.”
“We will not be able to replace Wesley. He is one of few that had complete commitment to public safety as a volunteer. Always there always participating. As much time as he has spent on emergency scenes, he never complained about conditions or outcomes. He always would finish his duties with ‘what do you want me to do now?’ We are going to miss him. We won’t be replacing him. We can’t,” Toombs County Fire Chief Johnny Moser commented.
Even fellow public servants, like the Vidalia Police Department and Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency, spoke out their heartbreak and admiration for the fallen firefighter.
“Wesley Ward was a valuable asset to the public safety community and was loved by many members within the Vidalia Police Department,” the Department shared, as the Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency stated, “We have lost another hero.”
