Marion County Fire Rescue is mourning the loss of a firefighter/paramedic who sadly passed away over the weekend.
In a social media post, MCFR announced that one of its firefighter/paramedics, Allen Singleton, passed away on Saturday, January 28.
Allen was a six-year veteran firefighter who joined the organization on September 12, 2016. Prior to his hiring, Allen was a member of the 2016 MCFR Non-Certified Recruit Academy.
Allen’s last assignment was at Rolling Greens Station #28, and he was a proud member of the Marion County Fire Rescue/Marion County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Medic team. In addition, MCFR described Allen as a competitive person by nature, and he won back-to-back Golden Axe awards for the organization’s physical competitions.
“Our department has been shaken to the core,” stated MCFR on its Facebook page. The organization’s leadership team is engaging with Allen’s family to help care for their needs during this difficult time.
Earlier this month, MCFR also lost 14-year veteran firefighter Tripp Wooten who sadly passed away on January 9.
Marion County Fire Rescue is encouraging its employees to take some time over the next couple of days to talk to each other and to check on friends and co-workers. The organization has reached out to the Florida Fire Chiefs Association to utilize their Mental Health Strike Teams.
According to MCFR, badge covers are authorized to be worn for the next 30 calendar days. Additionally, all sworn personnel are to wear class “A” uniforms when attending any related services.
Allen Singleton leaves behind a wife and two children.