LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Authorities have launched an investigation into death of an Oldham County firefighter who died in the line of duty.
According to Gov. Andy Beshear, 53-year-old Sgt. Thomas Petschke Jr. was among firefighters battling a wildfire they believe originated from a burning vacant structure on Nov. 11.
Petschke suffered a medical emergency during the incident and transferred to an area hospital where he died a short time later.
“Kentuckians, please continue to join Britainy and me in praying for the family and loved ones of this brave firefighter,” Gov. Beshear said in a statement. “To honor his life and service, we will be lowering flags at all state office buildings on the day of his interment.”
A GoFundMe has been started for the fallen Ballardsville firefighter.
Funeral arrangements for Petschke have not yet been announced.
The origin and cause of the fire have not yet been determined.
Funeral arrangements have also been announced for Petschke. Visitation will take place Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home. It's located at 706 West Jefferson Street in La Grange.
The funeral is at Southeast Christian Church (Crestwood Campus) at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16. It's located at 6220 Crestwood Station in Crestwood.
They are asking the community to line the route from the funeral home to the church around 10 a.m.
Petschke will be buried in Buffalo, New York.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Holy Trinity Church, 2416 KY-53, La Grange, Kentucky 40031.
What's happening with wildfires in Kentucky?
Gov. Beshear recently announced a state of emergency and said there are 16 active wildfires in eastern Kentucky, down from 31 on Thursday.
“We are witnessing a volatile fire season, and although our team is making progress, it continues to be a potentially dangerous situation,” Gov. Beshear said. “We remain grateful for those working on the frontlines to get these fires under control and protect our homes and communities.”
Hundreds of firefighters are working around the clock to control the fires. Beshear also stated about 36 fires have been contained and 76 are now controlled. An estimated 26,869 acres have been impacted around the state.
State officials are monitoring weather conditions as more dry weather is expected throughout the Ohio Valley.
About 40% of Kentucky is experiencing drought conditions.
There have been some county-level burn bans issues. Click here for more information.
Burn bans generally prohibit the following:
- Burning of forest, grass, crops, woodlands, marshes or other similar areas.
- Burning leaves or debris.
- Campfires, bonfires and warming fires.
- Open pit cooking and charcoal grilling.
- Use of fireworks and welding may also be prohibited or regulated
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