GREENFIELD, Ind. (WTHR) – Mueller Auto Body and Glass shop is a total loss after a three-alarm fire Friday night at the corner of Main and Apple Streets in the Riley Park Plaza in Greenfield.
But the Greenfield Fire Department is dealing with the loss of one of their own. Scott Compton died Saturday from an apparent medical issue, hours after fighting the large fire.
"He was a tremendous guy, hard worker, eager to do whatever needed to be done, never complained about anything around here, truly loved the job," said Greenfield Fire Chief Jim Roberts at department headquarters Saturday night.
Compton was 55 years old. He served with the Greenfield Fire Department for 17 years. He gave up his lieutenant officer status a couple years ago to become a part-time firefighter and EMT.
Friday night, Chopper 13 HD showed the big flames from the business blaze that kept Compton and his fellow firefighters working for seven hours. Nearby businesses and homes were protected.
“Felt like we did a very good job with that fire, so you come back feeling good about it,” said Chief Roberts. “Something like this to happen really changes the mood and the attitude."
Firefighters responded to a call Saturday afternoon about 2:00 p.m. to Compton's home, where he was found dead from an apparent medical issue. He is survived by two adult daughters and his fiancée.
"Great loss of a tremendous worker, a firefighter here at the department and a great friend,” said Chief Roberts.
The death within 24 hours of a firefight is considered in the line of duty, the first ever such loss for the Greenfield Fire Department.
“In this job we know it’s possible at any time,” said Chief Roberts. “You hear it about it at different times and different places. It’s not fair to say it will never happen here. It’s just hope that it never happens here.”
An autopsy will be performed Sunday morning, followed by a procession down Main Street to the funeral home estimated to occur around 11:30 a.m.
The Greenfield Fire Territory force includes 49 career officers, 5 part-time firefighters and 10 volunteer firefighters.