CLINTON, S.C. — A South Carolina firefighter has died in the line of duty while responding to an incident on Easter Sunday morning.
The Clinton Fire Department in Laurens County announced on Sunday that one of its own, Firefighter Michael "Mike Mike" Vinson, died when department engine 1202 was responding to a call around 11 a.m.
Authorities said a second firefighter was taken by helicopter to Spartanburg Regional Hospital for treatment. An occupant of the other vehicle was also taken to a local hospital for injuries that authorities do not believe are life-threatening.
"The City of Clinton asks you to keep all parties involved in your thoughts and prayers," the department said in Sunday's statement.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol's Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is investigating the crash. According to Lance Corporal Brittany Glover, the fire truck was traveling east on Willard Road with two people inside, and a 2006 Lexus was traveling north on Springdale Road when the two collided at the intersection.
Since the heartbreaking announcement, law enforcement and fire departments across the state have offered condolences and comfort to the department and those who knew or worked with Vinson.
Locally, the messages honoring the firefighter have come from several first responder groups, including Irmo Fire District.
"Keep the men and women of the Clinton Fire Department in your prayers today," the fire department said. "Their needs over the coming days, weeks, and months will be many. We will be there for them, and we know if we need a hand helping them, you'll be there for us."
The Batesburg-Leesville Fire Department and Newberry County Sheriff's Office also joined in offering messages of support.
