BERKS COUNTY — The Walnuttown Fire and Rescue Company is mourning the tragic loss of two of its top officers following a fatal crash that occurred during an active search and rescue operation.
Fire Chief Jeffory L. Buck and Assistant Fire Chief Robert R. Shick Jr. were killed after the ZForce side-by-side utility vehicle they were operating was involved in a head-on collision with a Toyota. The crash occurred at approximately 6:00 p.m. while both officers were part of a search team actively looking for a missing woman.
Chief Buck was pronounced dead at Lehigh Valley Hospital. Assistant Chief Shick was transported to Reading Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Berks County Coroner Matthew J. Stitzel confirmed both deaths to the media. Autopsies are scheduled for Monday.
The investigation into the collision remains active and ongoing. The Fleetwood Police Department, the Berks County District Attorney’s Forensic Services Unit, and both the Berks and Lehigh County Coroners’ offices are all involved in the continuing investigation.
The Walnuttown Fire and Rescue Company and the surrounding fire service community are asked to keep the families, fellow firefighters, and loved ones of Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick in their thoughts during this devastating time.
The fire service community lost two dedicated public servants who gave their lives in service to others — even in their final moments, they were out searching for someone in need.
📸 Photo credit: Nestor Video Production
🔔 Stay with us for updates as this investigation continues.
