Hundreds Attend Joint Funeral for Berks County Fire Chiefs Killed in Crash

Jeffory Buck and Robert Shick Jr. died while searching for a missing woman.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:19pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a firefighter's helmet with a charred, cracked visor, conveying the tragedy and investigation surrounding the deaths of the two fire chiefs.The charred remains of a firefighter's helmet serve as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by public servants in the line of duty.Fleetwood Today

Hundreds of community members and firefighters gathered for a joint funeral service to honor Walnuttown Fire Company Chief Jeffory Buck and Assistant Chief Robert Shick Jr., who were killed in a crash last weekend while searching for a missing woman in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Why it matters

The tragic loss of the two respected fire chiefs has deeply impacted the local community, with fire departments from across the state coming to pay their respects. The incident has also raised questions about the risks first responders face while carrying out search and rescue operations.

The details

Buck, 60, and Shick, 56, were killed on April 4 after a car swerved and struck the utility vehicle they were riding in along Route 222 in Richmond Township. The two had been taking part in a search for a missing woman at the time. The driver, identified as Alexander Sepulveda-Rivera, has been charged with homicide by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, and related offenses.

  • The joint funeral service was held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
  • Buck and Shick were killed in the crash on April 4, 2026.

The players

Jeffory Buck

Chief of the Walnuttown Fire Company.

Robert Shick Jr.

Assistant Chief of the Walnuttown Fire Company.

Robert Buck

Son of Jeffory Buck.

Brett Shick

Son of Robert Shick Jr.

Alexander Sepulveda-Rivera

The driver charged in connection with the crash that killed Buck and Shick.

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What they’re saying

“We didn't just lose two Chiefs. We lost two fathers, two husbands, two grandfathers, two mentors, two brothers, and two friends.”

— Robert Buck, Son of Jeffory Buck

“He was probably one of the most unselfish people I have ever known. He always put others before himself.”

— Brett Shick, Son of Robert Shick Jr.

What’s next

The driver, Alexander Sepulveda-Rivera, is expected to face a judge in the coming weeks as the legal proceedings continue.

The takeaway

The joint funeral for the two respected fire chiefs underscores the profound impact their loss has had on the local community. Their selfless dedication to public service and willingness to put themselves at risk to help others has left a lasting impression, and their memory will continue to inspire fellow first responders.