Statement
Statement From Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich on the Death of Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins
For Immediate Release: Monday 13 January
This weekend, Montgomery County experienced a heartbreaking loss with the death of Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins. He was a dedicated firefighter, a loving husband and father, and a mentor to many in our fire service community. On Saturday, he made the ultimate sacrifice while working to protect others, a reflection of his courage and selflessness.
This is a very sad moment for all of us, particularly the men and women of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and IAFF Local 1664. I want to thank Fire Chief Corey Smedley, the leadership of the Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service (MCFRS) and IAFF, County Council President Kate Stewart, Councilmember Dawn Luedtke, members of MCFRS and other regional fire officials and County leaders who joined me at the hospital Saturday night to stand in solidarity with Chris’ family and colleagues.
I met with Chris’ family Saturday night and offered my deepest condolences, and I assured them that we would be here to support them during this unimaginably difficult time. I also shared with the family that Governor Wes Moore asked me to extend his condolences.
Our first responders are asked to enter dangerous situations every day to keep us safe. On Saturday, Chris was doing exactly that—demonstrating the bravery and commitment that define the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. His death is a stark reminder of the risks they face on our behalf every hour of the day, every single day. We owe them our deepest gratitude.
I ask the people of Montgomery County to keep the Higgins family, his friends and his fire service colleagues in your thoughts. These are the days we hope will never come, but together, we will honor his service to our community.
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Release ID: 25-001