WINDSOR, ONT. -- Tecumseh firefighters are mourning the loss of one of their own after a motorcycle crash last week.
Fire Chief Wade Bondy confirmed Michael Abaldo of Tecumseh died in the crash.
“He was only 38 and had been on the fire service for five years,” said Bondy. “He left us far too soon.”
Essex County OPP continue to investigate the fatal collision involving a motorcycle and a vehicle on Friday.
“I heard the call come over the radio that there was a motorcycle vs car accident and that’s the last thing that would pop into your head that it’s one of your own members,” Bondy said.
He said it’s a devastating loss.
Abaldo would typically be the first to arrive at the fire hall, when he was needed, and was dedicated to his job.
OPP, Essex-Windsor EMS and Tecumseh Fire Rescue Service responded to the crash around 6:30 p.m. on Highway 3, west of Walker Road.
Abaldo, the operator of the motorcycle, was transported to an area hospital, but died from injuries sustained in the crash.
The lone occupant driver of the involved vehicle was treated for minor injuries.
Bondy said the department is going to create a fire sticker with Abaldo’s badge number, which will be placed on the firefighters’ helmets.
“I’ll remember Mike as a quiet but friendly guy,” he said. “He was always willing to help out the new recruits even though he had only been on the job for five years. He was one of the first guys to step up to help train them and make sure they knew what they were doing and to pass on his knowledge.”
The investigation is ongoing and the OPP is again asking that anyone who witnessed this collision, contact police at 1-888-310-1122 to assist with the investigation.
