Camden firefighter dies after being trapped under ice on Delaware River: officials

CAMDEN - Camden is mourning the loss of a firefighter who was pulled from the Delaware River after being trapped underneath the ice on Thursday morning.

What we know:

A frantic search unfolded at Wiggins Marina during what officials called a routine maintenance check of their fire boat. 

Camden Fire Chief Jesse Flax said the firefighter was submerged in the water for approximately 30 minutes before he was located.

Medics rushed the firefighter to the hospital where officials say he died.

What they're saying:

"I extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the fallen Camden City firefighter as well as the men and women of the Camden City Fire Department," Camden County Commissioner Jonathan Young said in a statement provided to FOX 29.

"Every day, our first responders leave the comfort and safety of their homes without knowing for sure if they will return after their shift," Young added. "The sacrifice of these dedicated individuals, as well as the sacrifices of their loved ones, affords all of us the opportunity to live in a safer community."

"This loss is felt not only in the City of Camden and Camden County, but reverberates throughout the state," he added. "We grieve alongside our first responders and are dedicated to ensuring this loss was not in vain." 

A husband and father

What we don't know:

Officials have not publicly identified the firefighter at this time.

Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen described the fallen firefighter as a husband and father. 

"I do not have enough words that I could even say that could tell you how this is hurting all of us," Chief Flax said.