- November 28, 2024
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An Ormond Beach firefighter died on Saturday, Feb. 4, after he was involved in a serious surfing accident in New Smyrna Beach.
Firefighter and paramedic Ethan Wilson, 33, was found unresponsive in the surf at New Smyrna Beach on Wednesday, Feb. 1.
The city of Ormond Beach stated in a press release that Wilson was "a dedicated member of the Ormond Beach Fire Department, loving father and husband, and friend to all who knew him." Wilson, who also worked in the Volusia Sheriff's Office 911 Communications Center, died in the hospital surrounded by his loved ones and fellow firefighters from throughout Volusia County.
"Ethan proudly served our community with bravery and commitment for many years, always putting the safety and well-being of others before his own," the city's press release reads. "His passing is a tremendous loss for our department, as well as for the entire Ormond Beach
community. He will be deeply missed, and his selfless spirit will live on in the lives he touched."
According to Wilson's GoFundMe page, in honor of his wishes, his organs were donated; staff at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach had already found matching recipients.
A public memorial celebrating his life will take place at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Flagler Avenue Boardwalk in New Smyrna Beach. The memorial will feature an optional paddle-out. As of Monday, Feb. 6, Wilson's GoFundMe had raised over $96,000 for his wife and son.
