Longtime Fireman Dies in Line of Duty in North Carolina

Dale Malone, a 45-year veteran of the White Level Fire Department, was killed while responding to a call.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A longtime firefighter in Franklin County, North Carolina, died in the line of duty on Tuesday night. Dale Malone, who served more than 45 years with the White Level Fire Department, was killed while responding to an emergency call. Malone's son, David, is a lieutenant with the neighboring Youngsville Fire Department.

Why it matters

The death of a veteran firefighter in the line of duty is a tragic loss for the local community and highlights the risks and sacrifices made by first responders who put their lives on the line to protect others. Malone's decades of dedicated service to the White Level Fire Department made him a pillar of the community.

The details

Malone was an engineer and safety officer for the White Level Fire Department. He had previously served as a lieutenant before taking on his most recent role. The department described Malone as a 'staple' who was often one of the first to respond to emergency calls, and said his 'legacy will live on in every truck that rolls out [of] the bay and in every firefighter who continues the mission he loved so much.'

  • Malone died in the line of duty on February 10, 2026.
  • Malone had served with the White Level Fire Department for more than 45 years.

The players

Dale Malone

A 45-year veteran of the White Level Fire Department in Franklin County, North Carolina, who died in the line of duty while responding to an emergency call.

David Malone

The son of Dale Malone, who is a lieutenant with the Youngsville Fire Department in Franklin County.

White Level Fire Department

The fire department where Dale Malone served for over 45 years, and which described him as a 'staple' of the department.

Youngsville Fire Department

The fire department in Franklin County where Dale Malone's son, David, serves as a lieutenant.

Franklin County emergency officials

Local emergency officials who paid tribute to the longtime firefighter and his dedication to serving the community.

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What they’re saying

“He [was] very dedicated to the [department] and was often one of the first to get a truck to respond to any call. He answered countless calls and helped build the foundation of the department we know today. His legacy will live on in every truck that rolls out [of] the bay and in every firefighter who continues the mission he loved so much.”

— White Level Fire Department (Facebook)

“We grieve with our partners at White Level Fire Department and the whole Franklin County community in the loss of a firefighter who gave his last full measure of devotion in serving and protecting Franklin County. His dedication and commitment to service will be an example to all first responders always.”

— Franklin County emergency officials (Facebook)

The takeaway

The tragic death of Dale Malone, a veteran firefighter with over 45 years of service, underscores the risks and sacrifices made by first responders who put their lives on the line to protect their communities. Malone's legacy will continue to inspire the firefighters who carry on his mission of service.