Viewing Held For Firefighter Killed In Howard Co.
JOPPA, Md. (WJZ) -- Friends, co-workers and the community are gathering Friday to remember Lt. Nathan Flynn after he was killed in a 7-alarm fire in Howard County early this week.
A viewing for Flynn was held from 12 to 8 p.m. at the Mountain Christian Church in Joppa.
"This is a dangerous job. When we lose somebody we have to be there for them, we have to be there for the family."
Flynn responded to a fire at a Clarksville home around 2 a.m. Monday. While he was inside trying to battle the blaze he fell through the first floor into the basement.
MORE: Maryland Firefighter Killed While Battling 7-Alarm Blaze
It took rescuers 22 minutes to find Flynn inside the smoke-filled home, but he was unconscious. He was rushed to an area hospital where he later died.
"Understandably a very difficult time for all of us."
Flags were flown at half-staff this week for the 34-year-old father of five, husband and 13-year veteran firefighter. The city of Havre de Grace also honored Flynn who had made their community his home.
Retired firefighter Tom Shull says he knew Flynn.
"I was actually a classmate of his training, class 20, wonderful guy," Shull said. "He's going to be sorely missed."
The Howard County Fire Department has posthumously promoted Flynn to lieutenant.
MORE: Investigation Continues Into Fire That Killed Howard Co. Firefighter
The investigation continues into the cause of the fire. Lightning was reportedly seen in the area before the blaze.
More than $110,000 has been raised for Flynn's family on a GoFundMe page set up by fellow firefighters at Susquehanna Hose Company, where Flynn volunteered.
A memorial service will be held Saturday beginning at 11 a.m.
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