A volunteer firefighter has died in the line of duty.
Firefighter Alexandru Uichita, a member of the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department, was killed May 21 during wildfire suppression operations in Moschelle, about 20 kilometres west of Bridgetown in Annapolis County.
According to a post to the department’s Facebook page Saturday evening, the 40-year-old was involved in firefighting operations when he suffered a “medical episode.”
“Members on scene responded immediately, but despite every effort, Alex could not be revived,” the post said.
Uichita joined the Bridgetown department in November 2024.
“We are devastated,” the department’s post stated.
“There are no words adequate for the loss we are feeling today, and we know that feeling is shared by so many who had the privilege of knowing Alex. His loss is deeply felt by his fellow firefighters, his friends, and the wider community he served with such dedication and pride.”
Uichita is survived by his wife and three young children, according to the post.
The Bridgetown department expressed thanks to other departments and agencies who were on the scene and assisted with the medical care, including the Annapolis Royal Volunteer Fire Department, Lawrencetown Volunteer Fire Department, Digby Volunteer Fire Department, Bear River Volunteer Fire Department, Emergency Health Services (EHS), the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
In a statement Saturday, Natural Resources Minister Kim Masland said the loss is a reminder of the “extraordinary courage and selflessness” firefighters show on a daily basis.
“Whether career or volunteer, these people put themselves in harm’s way to protect their neighbours and communities,” Masland said.
“Their dedication and bravery never go unnoticed, and this tragedy is felt far beyond the fire line.”
Premier Tim Houston also expressed condolences in a social media post on Saturday.
“My sincere condolences and thoughts are with Alex’s family, loved ones, fellow firefighters, and the entire community during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Bridgetown Fire Department has lowered its flags to half-mast.
Details about a memorial service and any related events will be shared once they’ve been confirmed in consultation with the family.
The department’s post noted anyone wishing to offer donations to the family should know they will be managed and collected through the department itself.
E-transfers can be sent to treasurer@bridgetownfire.ca, or cheques may be made payable to the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department, with 100 per cent of all funds going directly to Uichita’s family.
