Hatay firefighter dies of heart attack while responding to fire

In Hatay, Mehmet Aytaş, a firefighter with the Hatay Metropolitan Municipality, passed away after suffering a heart attack while responding to a grass fire in the Maraşboğazı area of the Antakya district. The incident occurred while fire crews were working to quickly contain the blaze.

As teams mobilized to prevent the fire from spreading, 42-year-old Aytaş suddenly fell ill, and medical teams were immediately notified. Despite all interventions, Aytaş could not be saved.

Hatay Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mehmet Öntürk stated on social media, "I learned with deep sorrow the news that our Serinyol Fire Department personnel, Mehmet Aytaş, passed away after suffering a heart attack during firefighting duties. I pray for God's mercy upon the deceased and wish patience for his family and all his loved ones. Our condolences to all."

It was learned that firefighter Mehmet Aytaş was remembered with respect and affection by his colleagues and had been involved in significant work for the community beyond his firefighting duties.

As messages of condolence poured in for Aytaş's family, local residents also expressed their deep sadness following the incident. While the investigation into the fire continues, it was emphasized that security measures in the area where the incident occurred should be increased.

This tragic event once again highlights the challenges faced by firefighting teams, and the loss to the firefighting community has been met with great sorrow by both his colleagues and the public.

Serinyol İtfaiye Grubu personelimiz Mehmet Aytaş'ın, yangın söndürme görevi sırasında kalp krizi geçirerek vefat ettiği haberini derin bir teessürle öğrendim.

Merhuma Allah’tan rahmet, ailesine ve tüm yakınlarına sabır diliyorum. Başımız sağ olsun.

— Mehmet ÖNTÜRK (@mehmetonturktr) September 24, 2024

News Source: İHA