The following statement was released by the Baltimore County Fire Department about the tragic Dundalk building fire that took the lives of three firefighters on Oct. 22, 1984:
On this day in 1984, our community experienced an unimaginable tragedy as three brave firefighters lost their lives battling the devastating blaze at Shiller’s Furniture and Appliance Store in Dundalk.
This heartbreaking event stands as the deadliest day in Baltimore County Fire Department history, forever etched in our memories.
Firefighters Walter Bawroski, Henry Rayner Jr., and James Kimbel made the ultimate sacrifice that day in the line of duty, courageously putting their lives on the line to protect others.
Their selflessness and heroism continue to inspire all of us, and today, forty years later, we pause to honor their legacy.
As we remember their sacrifice, we also reflect on the risks firefighters face daily and the unwavering commitment they show to keep our communities safe. Walter, Henry, and James will never be forgotten. We stand with their families and the entire firefighting community, holding their memory close in our hearts.