BURKE COUNTY, N.C. — First responders across Burke County are rallying to support one of their own after a deputy fire chief suffered a serious spinal injury while responding to a call on icy conditions.
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Assistant Fire Chief Jon Lowdermilk, a 25-year volunteer firefighter, retired paramedic and rescue squad member, is expected to be hospitalized for weeks followed by months of rehabilitation.
Lowdermilk has been with the West End Fire Department for 25 years but on a recent call to help someone, he slipped on ice and fell.
He has regained some feeling in his legs but has a long recovery.
First responders said they appreciate any help they can get.
“Also, if you can’t help, we just ask for your prayers,” said Jeremy Allen, West End Fire. “We know God can move and do miraculous things. We just ask for your prayers.”
A GoFundMe campaign has raised thousands of dollars to help his family as the community continues to step up.
Lowdermilk “would go above and beyond not only for us, but his community,” Allen said.
The Burke County Rescue Squad said over the last week, they’ve responded to more than three dozen calls of people who have fallen and been hurt on the ice.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com and watch Eyewitness News for updates.
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