WHITE MARSH, MD—The White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company, along with other local fire departments, is remembering four volunteer firefighters who died in a flash flood 54 years ago.
On August 1, 1971, a sudden and severe thunderstorm caused a flash flood in Baltimore County, leading to the deaths of four firefighters and four civilians. A line of thunderstorms over the area produced 12.5 inches of rain during an eight-hour period. The firefighters were attempting a water rescue when they were swept away in Bean Creek.
The fallen firefighters were identified as Milton DeSombre, 49, and Warren Shafer, 23, both from the Bowleys Quarters Volunteer Fire Rescue & Marine, and Charles Hopwood, 42, and Douglas Mueller, 18, from the Cowenton Volunteer Fire Company, which is now known as the White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company.
The tragedy marked a somber day for the community and serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by first responders. The White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company shared the remembrance on its Facebook page, honoring the sacrifice of the four men who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The four firefighters will be honored this Tuesday during the National Night Out event at White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company.
