Pittsburgh Fire Battalion Chief John Walsh dies while in command of fire in East Hills

PITTSBURGH — A fire chief died after he suffered a medical emergency at the scene of a house fire in Pittsburgh’s East Hills on Wednesday night.

Our crew at the scene saw a firefighter being treated by medics. The firefighter, identified as Battalion Chief John Walsh, 60, had a medical emergency and was taken to a local hospital where he died.

Funeral arrangements for Walsh were announced Thursday night. A viewing will be held Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m. at Slater Funeral Home, Walsh’s final salute will be at 7 p.m.

A funeral Mass will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Cathedral.

Instead of flowers, the Walsh family is asking for donations to the Pittsburgh Fire Fighters. Donations can be mailed to 120 Flowers Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15207.

“It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest sympathies to Mary Walsh, as well as the family, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the loss of Battalion Chief John P. Walsh. Chief Walsh tragically passed away while in command of a structure fire last night. His unwavering passion for the job, his courageous service, and his remarkable leadership over 37 dedicated years will never be forgotten. Chief Walsh embodied the very best of what it means to serve and protect. Rest easy, Chief Walsh. We have the watch from here,” Pittsburgh Fire Fighters read.

City of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania officials commented on Walsh’s death, saying he dedicated 37 years of service to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire.

Pittsburgh Fire Chief Darryl Jones:

“John Walsh was a stabilizing force in the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. He was a master tactician on the fire ground and possessed a commanding presence, which generated confidence and respect from all those under his command. I would like to thank the members of C-Line, the Fire Investigation Unit, Pittsburgh EMS, and UPMC Presbyterian Hospital ER for their heroic efforts to save our Brother. He will be greatly missed.”

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey:

“This morning, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire announced the passing of one of its own. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Battalion Chief John P. Walsh, who was a dedicated and courageous member of the Bureau for nearly three decades. Chief Walsh was the true embodiment of a public servant, known for his leadership and commitment to the safety of our city. As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also honor the legacy and lasting impact that Chief Walsh left on the lives of his fellow firefighters and those he served. Pittsburgh, please join me in extending thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the family, friends, fellow firefighters, and public safety colleagues of Battalion Chief John P. Walsh. May his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”

Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt:

“It is with deep sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, fellow firefighters, and public safety colleagues of Battalion Chief John Walsh. Chief Walsh dedicated nearly three decades of service to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, where his leadership, commitment, and unwavering courage made a profound impact on the safety of our city. His loss is not only a tragedy for his loved ones, but for our entire community.”

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro:

“Last night while in command of the response to a fire, Battalion Chief John Walsh passed away in the line of duty. Lori and I are praying for Battalion Chief Walsh’s family, his friends, his fellow Pittsburgh Fire Fighters, and the entire Pittsburgh community. Our flags will be lowered to half-staff in recognition of his service. May his memory be a blessing.”

Departments across the region are posting messages of prayer for the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire on social media.

Emsworth Volunteer Fire Company:

“Emsworth VFC sends our thoughts and prayers to the men and women of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire tonight. While the situation continues to unfold, we pray for a positive outcome for one of their members.”

Avalon Volunteer Fire Company:

“Sending our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow firefighters of Battalion Chief Walsh who passed while on duty last night. Your decades of selfless service to the Pittsburgh community will not be forgotten — we’ve got it from here, Chief.”

Port Authority of Allegheny County Police:

“Our deepest condolences to the friends, family and coworkers of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire Battalion Chief John Walsh.”

McKeesport Bureau of Fire:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the men and women of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire tonight.”

South Baldwin Volunteer Fire Company:

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to our brothers and sisters of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire.”

Moon Run Volunteer Fire Company:

“Our deepest condolences to the brothers/sisters of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire as they deal with the LODD of Chief Walsh.”

Wexford Volunteer Fire Company:

“The Wexford Volunteer Fire Company sends our deepest sympathies to the Men and Women of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and the family/friends of Battalion Chief John Walsh. RIP John.”

Schmidt said the Department of Public Safety will provide any support needed by Walsh’s colleagues and family who are mourning his loss.

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