Hundreds Turn Out For Vigil For Murdered Firefighter

DETROIT (WWJ) - As Detroit police continue to search for the person who murdered firefighter Dave Madrigal, hundreds of people turned out for a vigil at the Detroit firehouse where he worked.

The 59-year old, known as "Super Dave" to his colleagues, worked at Engine 33 on Lawndale, near I-75 and Fort Street.

Madrigal was found dead Monday inside his home on Vaughan Street in Detroit.

Fire chief Gene Biondo remembered the first time he met the firefighter.

"When I came here I was a far east-sider all my life on the job. Dave was the first guy to come up, and it was like everyone said we weren't east-side, west-side, you are just a brother. Right away he took you in - first guy to come and welcome me here. Made me feel at home and I love him for that," said Biondo.

Ernesto Madrigal said he was grateful to all of the people who came to tell their stories of his cousin and remember him.

"It is very sad, I don't think he deserved to go that way," said Ernesto Madrigal. "Who knows how we are going or what time but I pray to God that he is resting in peace and I know that he is looking at us and he'd be grateful that you people are coming around and sharing the brotherhood."

Madrigal's stolen SUV was found several miles from his home.

Numerous items, including a safe, are still missing.

Funeral arrangements are not known at this time.