[Scan-DC] Now LODD

[James Richardson]

Its with deep regret that we advise you that Alexandria (VA) Fire Department
Joshua Weissman, 33, has died from injuries he sustained last evening while
operating at a vehicle fire scene on I-395. As you know, Paramedic Weissman,
who is with the Seminary Road Fire Station in Alexandria, was extricated
from the creek by Alexandria City and Arlington County Firefighters after
falling from the Interstate and taken to Med Star with life threatening
injuries.

The Alexandria ambulance reportedly parked on I-395 northbound, alongside
the HOV lanes, to reach the burning vehicle. There is a three foot gap
between two cement barriers separating the lanes. Paramedic Weissman was
reportedly climbing over one barrier to get to the HOV lanes when he fell.


A seven year veteran paramedic of the Alexandria Fire Department had been in
critical condition Thursday morning after falling from a highway overpass
during an emergency call in Shirlington yesterday. Since joining the
department, Weissman has stayed active, joining several medical services
committees, training with interns and working on the agency's mass casualty
preparation plans. He received an Alexandria Jaycees award during the
group's community appreciation night last year.


The department is offering counseling for personnel as well as comfort for
Weissman's family. The experienced Firefighter/Paramedic is married, but
without children. Paramedic Weissman had also served the Cayuga Heights Fire
Department (New York) and for Bang's Ambulance Service in Ithaca before
moving to Virginia. Our condolences to all affected, especially the family
and members of the AFD.

 

HERE IS A LINK TO THE RADIO TRAFFIC OF THE INCIDENT:
<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=8hkx6tcab&et=1109263041928&s=5502&e=0018CuTU2
dYHY5WyGhzSfGhu3W37jZ58JUSPfKKfX4f0slRaWf9Em4CShB-cIo02t-Wjg9tc7e8OZQyrgFab0
7lN8eS1FMgBmPagqO-N-UKAJajR0aJacwAhjXby5mkoycxvFX8rbqMEl3rwhAjQOy5Vw1Ye0Fvb7
MPDS8lTmQrO5cmSmA9Yw9XIQ==>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AHkAF8kmEeI