By Leila Merrill
BEACH PARK, Ill. — The Beach Park Fire Department is mourning the loss of Lt. Christian Samuels, 32, the Lake McHenry County Scanner reported.
The cause of death may be suicide, the news outlet reported. The Lake County coroner said that Samuels was found dead early Wednesday at a Holiday Inn.
Samuels was a firefighter-paramedic and a training officer, according to the fire department’s website.
https://www.facebook.com/BeachParkFireDepartment/posts/198357499140140
“For those who knew him, he leaves behind a great legacy and will truly be missed by all. Those who didn’t have the chance to meet Chris, everyone would tell you how infectious is laugh was, and what a dear friend he was to everyone he met,” the Beach Park Fire Department posted on Facebook Thursday afternoon. “Lt. Samuels was a great asset here at the Beach Park Fire Department. He was a great leader, mentor, and most of all, brother. We have all been blessed to work alongside him during his many years with us.”
Suicide is always preventable. If you are having thoughts of suicide or feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline immediately at 800-273-8255. Counselors are also available to chat at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Remember: You deserve to be supported, and it is never too late to seek help. Speak with someone today.