An Orange County Fire Authority firefighter, identified as Fire Apparatus Engineer Kevin Skinner, tragically lost his life early Sunday while responding to a residential fire in Laguna Niguel. The call came just before 5 a.m. in the 29400 block of Pointe Royale. Skinner, according to KTLA, began to feel unwell during a search operation and, upon exiting the structure, suffered a cardiac arrest.
Despite immediate attempts to quickly administer life-saving measures, Skinner's condition rapidly worsened, and he collapsed. Fellow firefighters and paramedics worked to resuscitate him, but, as per a statement obtained by NBC Los Angeles, “Despite their heroic efforts, Kevin did not survive.” Skinner had served over 25 years with the Orange County Fire Authority, joining after his time in the U.S. Navy, beginning in 1999.
"[Kevin] was known for his warm personality and his ability to make everyone feel welcome," an OCFA social media post read, acknowledging the fallen fireman's amiable nature and his dedicated service, as reported by KTLA. In a stirring tribute to Skinner’s memory, OCFA expressed their heartfelt sorrow, highlighting the impact he had on his community and colleagues.
The OCFA has asked the public to remember Skinner and the sacrifices made by fire service professionals daily. "We ask that you keep Kevin's family, friends, and each other in your thoughts during this difficult time," the agency stated, reiterating a sentiment echoed by CBS News Los Angeles.
