Twenty six years ago a horrible tragedy occurred which resulted in the loss of one of our members in the line of duty. Live-In Member Joseph Vagnier was part of a Rescue crew that was actively attempting to check vehicles for occupants that were stranded in rushing flood waters on July 1st, 1997. During this operation he lost his footing and was swept up in the water becoming pinned underneath a vehicle. He was removed and transported to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on July 3rd. We Honor Joe’s memory now by having learned from this tragedy and creating our Swift Water Rescue team within Monroeville Fire Department.
