SOUTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — The procession honoring Walnuttown Fire and Rescue Chief Jeff Buck and Assistant Chief Robert Shick has concluded, marking a final farewell to two beloved first responders who gave their lives in service to their community.
Buck and Shick were killed Saturday night after being struck while operating their UTV along Route 222 in Richmond Township, Berks County. The two men were in the midst of a missing person search when the fatal crash occurred.
The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office determined the cause of death to be blunt force injuries, ruling the manner of death an accident. A New York man remains in custody in connection with the crash, and the investigation is ongoing.
Members of the fire and rescue community, along with residents across the Lehigh Valley and Berks County, came together to pay their respects to two men remembered for their unwavering dedication to those they served.
“They’re just very quick to respond, always here for the community, trying to do their best,” one official said.
Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick will not be forgotten. Their sacrifice stands as a reminder of the dangers faced by first responders who answer the call — day or night — without hesitation.
First Source News extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and fellow members of Walnuttown Fire and Rescue.
