A memorial service honoring a Riverside County Fire Department firefighter who collapsed and died while on duty is scheduled Tuesday in Temecula, where family and associates will gather in person, while the public is invited to observe via an internet live-stream.
Apparatus Engineer Daniel “Danny” Cook, 45, died on Dec. 31 as he was deployed with his engine crew, battling a garage fire impacting a single-story residence in the 31300 block of Marcuchio Road, near Hansen Avenue, in Nuevo.
“His passing is a profound loss to the fire service and to all who had the privilege of serving alongside him,” according to a county fire statement. “His is survived by his wife, Joanne, and six children.”
The remembrance service for Cook is set for 1 p.m. Tuesday at Sunridge Community Church on Winchester Road.
“These services will not be open to the public,” the fire department said. “We respectfully ask that the family’s privacy be honored during this time … Personnel from fire departments, law enforcement agencies and (other) county departments are welcome to attend in support of the Cook family and our extended public safety community.”
The memorial will be broadcast live via the agency’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/live/WusCXIWNdG0?feature=share. Anyone from the general public can view it.
“Engineer Cook will be remembered for his professionalism, commitment to service and the positive influence he had on his fellow firefighters and the community,” according to the agency statement. “His legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched throughout his career.”
The specific cause of the fireman’s death has not been disclosed.
He was among multiple engine crews sent to the garage fire in the predawn hours of New Year’s Eve. Officials said two occupants of the property, identified only as a man and woman, suffered minor injuries, including superficial burns and smoke inhalation.
During containment operations, Cook suffered a major health complication requiring immediate attention from paramedics. No other details were provided.
Engineers generally oversee water supplies and flow rates, hose integrity and other apparatus maintenance, without directly engaging a blaze with their fellow crew members.
Cook was taken by ambulance to Riverside University Medical Center in Moreno Valley.
“Despite exhaustive efforts of fire and medical personnel, Engineer Cook succumbed to the medical emergency,” the fire department stated.
The two victims of the house fire were transported to the same hospital and have since recovered. The blaze was knocked down within an hour. No firefighters were injured. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.