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17-year-old Pa. junior firefighter killed in e-bike crash while responding to call

A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Junior Firefighter Bryce Kaufmann died after his e-bike collided with a car while he was responding to an emergency call

GIRARD, Pa. — A 17-year-old Pennsylvania junior firefighter died after his e-bike collided with a vehicle while he was responding to an emergency call.

The Dobler Hose & Ladder Company in Girard identified the teenager as Junior Firefighter Bryce Kaufmann. The department remembered him as a dedicated junior firefighter with a strong commitment to helping others.

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Police said Kaufmann was riding south on Culbertson Drive when he failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with the front passenger side of a sedan, according to YourErie.com. The impact ejected him from the e-bike.

Kaufmann died from his injuries on Sept. 21.

“Bryce, a dedicated junior member of our company, exemplified the commitment and spirit of public service that defines the fire service. Even at a young age, he demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, responsibility, and a sincere desire to help others. His loss is felt profoundly throughout our organization, the Girard community, and by all who knew him,” the department said in a statement.

There was no report on whether or not Kaufmann was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and the nature of the call he was responding to.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.