By: Richard L. Smith
A veteran firefighter from the Camden Fire Department died Thursday after falling into the icy waters of the Delaware River while responding to an incident at the city’s waterfront, according to a report from CBS Philadelphia.
Officials identified the firefighter as Howard Bennett, 61, a longtime member of the Camden department with decades of service.
Bennett was taking part in what began as a routine action when he slipped through the ice at Wiggins Waterfront Park and went into the frigid river, authorities said.
Camden County officials said fellow firefighters and first responders worked to pull Bennett from the water, where he is believed to have been submerged for roughly 30 minutes before being rescued.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to information sent by Camden County officials, crews from multiple agencies, including fireboats and emergency personnel, attempted to reach Bennett through the broken ice as temperatures remained well below freezing.
Leaders in Camden expressed deep sorrow following the loss.
In statements shared at the scene, city officials described Bennett as a dedicated public servant, husband and father who devoted his life to protecting the community.
The Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey also paid tribute, calling Bennett a trusted colleague and highlighting the dangers first responders face even during routine operations.
No further details about the circumstances leading up to his fall were immediately released, and the incident remains under review by local authorities.