LEXINGTON, N.C. — Editor's note: The video attached is from a prayer gathering at the firefighter's church, several days before he passed.
A badly injured Lexington firefighter died Friday morning, according to Battalion Chief JD Everhart.
Captain Ronnie Metcalf went to the hospital with serious injuries after responding to an overnight fire on March 26. Fire and smoke were coming out of the back of a house on 309 W. 5th Street.
After a few minutes of battling the fire, an order to evacuate the home was issued, according to the Lexington Fire Department. Fire crews evacuated the area and then realized that one firefighter was missing.
Teams reentered the building and found the missing firefighter, Metcalf.
Metcalf was treated for burn injuries on the scene before being flown to Baptist, the fire department said.
The Lexington Fire Chief told WFMY News 2 that the injuries were the most significant he had ever seen in all years of service.
Metcalf was a veteran firefighter, serving the community for 30 years. He had been with the Lexington Fire Department for 19 years.
City officials released statements in response to Metcalf's passing.
Mayor Jason Hayes released the following statement:
On behalf of the City of Lexington and the city council, my heart goes out to the Metcalf Family. Captain Metcalf was an integral part of the Lexington Fire Department and public safety of our citizens for the last 19 years. We are heartbroken and also reminded that the risk that our firefighters accept in an effort to protect our community is an incredibly dangerous role. Our community has poured out their concern for the Metcalf family and I am certain that they will continue to need our support and prayers in the days and months ahead. We ask that the public share in our thoughts & prayers for the Metcalf family as their family gets through this difficult time.
City Manager Johnnie Taylor released the following statement:
I am saddened by the passing of Captain Metcalf as a result of the injuries sustained while working to serve his community in the line of duty.
He was truly a hero and an example of what it is to give 100% in his efforts to serve and protect our community. We ask that you keep the Metcalf family in your thoughts & prayers during this difficult time.
On Saturday, Lexington Police charged two people with misdemeanor breaking and entering into the house right before the fire started. At this point, the two people arrested do not face any charges linked to the fire or Metcalf’s death. Lexington Police say the investigation is active and ongoing.
Several Triad fire departments posted on social media, sharing condolences for the fallen hero.
The South Lexington Fire Department St. 46/47 posted: "In memory of a courageous Firefighter who dedicated his life to helping others. We honor Captain Ronnie Metcalf for his bravery and selflessness. Rest in Peace Brother."
Kernersville Fire and Rescue shared on Facebook: "Please join us in keeping the family of Captain Ronnie Metcalf, as well as the Lexington Fire Department and the Denton Fire Department, in your thoughts and prayers. Ronnie passed away today from injuries sustained in the line of duty."