Camden Firefighter Dies After Falling Through Ice

Veteran firefighter drowned during routine boat inspection at Wiggins Marina

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A veteran Camden firefighter died after falling through the ice and becoming trapped while performing a routine inspection of a fire boat at Wiggins Marina. The firefighter, a man in his 60s, was pulled from the water but could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the hospital. This is the first line-of-duty death for the Camden Fire Department in over 30 years.

Why it matters

The tragic death of this experienced firefighter has left the Camden community in mourning, highlighting the dangers first responders face in the line of duty. It's the first such loss for the fire department in decades, underscoring the critical role these public servants play in protecting their communities.

The details

According to Camden Fire Chief Jesse Flax, a crew of four firefighters was performing a routine inspection of a fire boat docked at Wiggins Marina around 11 a.m. when the veteran firefighter, a man in his 60s, fell through the ice and became trapped. He was pulled from the water and rushed to Cooper University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

  • The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2026.
  • The firefighter was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The players

Jesse Flax

Camden Fire Chief, who provided details about the incident and the department's mourning.

Vic Carstarphen

Camden Mayor, who praised the fallen firefighter as a dedicated public servant and family man.

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What they’re saying

“This is a very difficult time for all of us. I do not have enough words that I could even say that could tell you how this is hurting all of us.”

— Jesse Flax, Camden Fire Chief (1057thehawk.com)

“He wasn't just a public servant. He was a husband, was a brother, a father that committed his life to serving and protecting and being there for our residents in the city. The city will be there to support his family.”

— Vic Carstarphen, Camden Mayor (1057thehawk.com)

What’s next

The Camden Fire Department and city officials are planning a memorial service to honor the fallen firefighter and provide support to his family.

The takeaway

This tragic loss underscores the risks and sacrifices made by firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect their communities. The Camden Fire Department's first line-of-duty death in over 30 years has left the city in mourning, highlighting the critical role these public servants play and the need to support them.