A firefighter died early Thursday during what was called a "difficult and prolonged extrication" at a vehicle crash site, according to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.
Identified as Engineer Michael Freeland on a number of social media posts by family, friends and firefighters union President Randy Wyse, he is the first fire department death in the line of duty at an incident scene in many years.
"He was a proud firefighter and loved saving lives," a family member wrote on Facebook. "Thank you to his JFRD family that were on the scene and those who helped my family at the hospital this morning. He is our hero."
Read the rest of this story from WJCT News partner The Florida Times-Union.