Buncombe Co. fire chief to be honored, died during Helene

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) — Multiple fire departments will honor a firefighter who died in the line of duty during Hurricane Helene.

Tony Garrison died September 27 in a mudslide , while trying to rescue people from the hurricane.

According to Buncombe County officials, Garrison was a Battalion Chief with the Fairview Fire Department and a firefighter with the Garren Creek Fire Department.

On October 22, a final salute will be held for the fallen chief. Fire departments and emergency service groups agencies are invited to join in the farewell.

“Let us come together to pay tribute to a fallen hero who exemplified courage, commitment, and service,” a representative with the county said.

Agencies that want to partake in the drive-by lineup are asked to email terry.young@ncdoi.gov .

County officials asked that agencies specify how many vehicles and the amount of personnel that will be in attendance. Details regarding time and location will be shared privately.

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