Deputy chief recounts final moments at wildfire scene
A volunteer firefighter with the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department died after suffering a medical episode while helping suppress a wildfire in Moschelle, a community in Annapolis County, N.S., according to a statement issued Saturday by Nova Scotia natural resources minister Kim Masland.
The department identified the firefighter as Alexandru Uichita, 40, who joined the department in November 2024. He is survived by his wife and three young children.
Deputy fire chief Justin Oliver, who was working alongside Uichita at the scene, said the crew had been assisting another local department in containing the 1.4-hectare blaze when Uichita reported feeling unwell. Oliver told him to rest, but Uichita suffered a medical emergency shortly afterward.
“The last thing that I heard him say was calling my name for help,” Oliver told CBC News.
Oliver and his team attempted to resuscitate Uichita and remained by his side until an ambulance arrived. He was later pronounced dead in hospital.
Fire chief Randy Sheridan described Uichita as a dependable member of the 33-person volunteer crew who had quickly earned the trust of his colleagues. Uichita also served during last year’s Long Lake wildfires, which burned nearly 8,500 hectares and destroyed 20 homes in the West Dalhousie area.
“The biggest thing I remember is his smile. It was always on his face,” Sheridan told CBC News. “No matter what I asked him to do, no matter what we were talking about, he always had a smile on his face. I’ll remember that forever.”
The department described Uichita in a social media post as a “quiet leader” who spent his final moments surrounded by his peers and serving the community he cared so deeply about.
Masland said the death “is a reminder of the extraordinary courage and selflessness firefighters demonstrate every day.”
“Whether career or volunteer, these people put themselves in harm’s way to protect their neighbours and communities. Their dedication and bravery never go unnoticed, and this tragedy is felt far beyond the fire line,” Masland said.
The wildfire in Moschelle was declared under control. The department said it is collecting donations for Uichita’s family through its treasurer and leadership and will not accept funds through crowdfunding or online platforms.
