Honoring MFF Chris Higgins: A Solemn Procession of Honor

A dignified procession honoring MFF Chris Higgins will take place on Tuesday morning, January 14, 2025, beginning with his transfer from the Office of the Medical Examiner in Baltimore to the McCully, Polyniak & Collins Funeral Home in Pasadena, MD.

The procession will pass through Montgomery County, making its way past the Takoma Park (FS702), Glenmont (FS718), and Burtonsville (FS715) Fire Stations, before proceeding through Anne Arundel County, passing the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Department (FS13), on its way to the funeral home. Chris' family and his fellow shift members will accompany him throughout this journey.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, it is respectfully requested that no Fire Department personnel other than those assigned to the procession attend at the Medical Examiner's office in Baltimore or the Funeral Home in Anne Arundel County. Please honor these wishes by paying your respects only at the designated locations, either at fire stations or safe areas along the route.

                 Estimated Travel Times (subject to various factors):

• Departure from Baltimore is anticipated around 10:00 AM
• Travel along I-95 toward to Takoma Park and Glenmont Fire Stations
• Arrival at Burtonsville Fire Station is expected between 11:00 and 11:30 AM
  
  

For media inquiries, please contact:
Pete Piringer, Public Information Officer
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
240-672-4871  |  peter.piringer@montgomerycountymd.gov

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Mourns the Loss of Master Firefighter Christopher J. Higgins

Montgomery County, MD – With profound sadness, the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) announces the Line of Duty Death of Master Firefighter Christopher J. Higgins, who passed away on January 11, 2025, while courageously serving the community.

Master Firefighter Higgins was responding to a house fire on Bradford Drive in Prince George’s County as the driver of Truck 715 (Burtonsville). While performing his duties, a medical event occurred as he was throwing ladders to the structure. Despite the swift response of his fellow firefighters and on scene medical responders and immediate transport to White Oak Medical Center, MFF Higgins succumbed to his injuries.

MFF Higgins was a respected and dedicated member of the MCFRS family, with 23 years of exemplary service. Known for his exceptional skills, mentorship, and unwavering commitment, he was more than a firefighter—he was a friend and role model to many. His loss is deeply felt throughout our department and the broader community. In addition to serving as a firefighter in Montgomery County, he volunteered in Earliegh Heights (Anne Arundel County). Chris was married with two children and resided in Pasadena, Maryland. 

“We extend our deepest condolences to Chris’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Fire Chief Corey Smedley. “Master Firefighter Higgins dedicated his life to protecting others, and we are committed to honoring his legacy by continuing to serve with the same courage and dedication to which he demonstrated every day.”

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident is ongoing. Further details about memorial services and department honors for MFF Higgins will be shared as they become available.

Master Firefighter Christopher J. Higgins’ legacy will forever remain a part of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. We honor his service and sacrifice, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. 

For media inquiries, please contact:
Pete Piringer, Public Information Officer
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
240-672-4871  |  peter.piringer@montgomerycountymd.gov