15 Mar
72°F
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71°F
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62°F
18 Mar
65°F
19 Mar
72°F
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64°F
21 Mar
55°F
15 Mar
72°F
16 Mar
71°F
17 Mar
62°F
18 Mar
65°F
19 Mar
72°F
20 Mar
64°F
21 Mar
55°F
Weather Data Source: North Carolina 30 days weather

Saluda County Community Mourns Two Fallen Firefighters

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Community members gather to honor fallen firefighters during a memorial service.

News Summary

A tragic incident during Hurricane Helene claimed the lives of two firefighters in Saluda County. Chief Chad Satcher and volunteer Landon Bodie died when a tree fell on their firetruck while attending to an emergency. The community is in mourning and is coming together to honor their sacrifice and support their families. Fundraising efforts are underway, including a memorial oyster roast and concert, to provide necessary equipment for local fire responders.

Saluda County Community Mourns Two Firefighters Slain by a Falling Tree

The small town of Saluda County is grappling with an unimaginable loss as tragedy struck during Hurricane Helene on September 27. Two brave firefighters, Chad Satcher and Landon Cale Bodie, lost their lives when a huge tree came crashing down on their firetruck while they were rushing to answer an emergency call near Batesburg-Leesville.

A Community in Shock

This devastating incident has left the entire community reeling. Landon, a mere 19 years old, had only been a volunteer at the Circle Fire Department for about three months. He had just graduated from Blythewood High School in 2022, where he was an enthusiastic member of the Future Farmers of America. Like many young people in the area, he loved the great outdoors—hunting, fishing, and spending quality time helping his grandfather with carpentry. It’s heartbreaking to think that someone so young and full of life felt the call to serve and protect his community, only to lose his life in such a sudden way.

Chad Satcher, the Chief of the Circle Volunteer Fire Department, was a pillar of the community, serving Saluda County for an incredible 35 years. His dedication and commitment to his role have left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he served alongside. Both he and Bodie are remembered fondly for their dedication to serving others even in the face of danger.

Hurricane Helene’s Reach

The impact of Hurricane Helene has been felt not just locally but across many states in the southeastern United States, leaving behind extensive damage and claiming over 40 lives. Sadly, Chad and Landon became two of those statistics, and their loss is one that will be deeply felt for years to come. The storm has also wreaked havoc on power and cellular services, making the situation more challenging for those responding to emergencies.

Community Support and Fundraising Efforts

In the wake of such a tragedy, Governor Henry McMaster has extended his condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and urged everyone in the community to come together to support those affected. Understanding the need for support, the Circle Volunteer Fire Department is planning a heartfelt oyster roast and concert to raise funds for essential response and safety equipment. This gathering will serve both as a memorial and a rallying point for the community, uniting everyone in the face of adversity.

Additionally, a “touch a fire truck” event is scheduled for March 15 at the Flight Deck Restaurant in Lexington, providing families, especially young children, with a chance to connect with their local heroes while supporting a worthy cause.

Processing the Tragic Loss

For the family members of young Landon Bodie, the loss is still sinking in. They describe their situation as surreal and are grappling with the emptiness left behind. Meanwhile, the Circle Fire Department is mourning the first-ever losses in its history due to their commitment to duty. Together, the community faces the daunting task of healing while paying tribute to two lives that were dedicated to serving and protecting others.

A Final Farewell

Funeral services for Chad Satcher are scheduled for October 5 at the Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center, offering a space for the community to come together and honor his memory. Arrangements for Landon Bodie are still pending, but they will surely bring the community together once again to bid farewell to their young hero.

As the Circle Fire Department continues to face this overwhelming tragedy, neighboring Lexington County Fire is stepping in to lend support, emphasizing the camaraderie shared among those in the first responder community. The response to the accident triggered a crash alert to alert surrounding firefighters, a reminder of the serious risks they face while serving during severe weather events.

The impact of Hurricane Helene and the loss of these two firefighters serves as a solemn reminder of the dedication and sacrifice made by first responders, who selflessly put their lives on the line for others.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Honoring Heroes: Memorial Service for Fallen Firefighters
Columbia Firefighters’ Remarkable Recovery from August Blaze
Major Fire at Amick Farms Poultry Plant in Saluda County
Major Fire Breaks Out at Amick Farms Processing Plant in Saluda County
West Columbia Parks Reopen After Winter Storm

Additional Resources

Saluda County Community Mourns Two Fallen Firefighters

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Author: HERE Chapin

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