VINTON COUNTY, Ohio – A local fire chief is in serious condition following injuries sustained in a fire incident yesterday. Chief Mark Peters of the Zaleski Volunteer Fire Department was critically injured during efforts to extinguish a brush fire that escalated into a structure fire.
The incident occurred while battling the blaze, but the details surrounding Chief Peters’ injuries have not been fully disclosed. What we know at this hour is that a falling tree was the cause of the injuries. He was airlifted from the scene due to the severity of his condition, which included a small brain bleed and multiple facial and skull fractures.
According to updates from the fire department’s social media account, Chief Peters has shown signs of stability. “Repeat CT scans this morning showed no growth on the bleed, so no need for neurosurgery at this point. Facial and skull fractures also do not need surgery. He is very sore but alert and acting like himself,” the statement read.
The community and fellow firefighters have rallied around Chief Peters and the Zaleski Volunteer Fire Department during this challenging time, offering support and wishes for a speedy recovery.