Florida Firefighter Succumbs to Injuries

LAYTON, FLA. -- There's one word that wasn't part of Johnny Bajusz's vocabulary -- no.

The volunteer firefighter with the Layton Volunteer Fire Department died July 18 of injuries sustained in a crash that occurred in January.

Bajusz was just out of Conch Key when he heard the tones sound for a vehicle fire. He was attempting a U-turn when his vehicle was struck by a utility truck.

He was pinned in the wreckage, and had to be extricated by rescue personnel. He was then flown to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami where he remained for more than six months. One of his legs had to be amputated above the knee.

On July 17, Bajusz requested he be taken home. He died the following day.

"He would do anything for anyone. He loved helping people," said Rita Haring, a member of the board of directors at Layton VFD.

He had been a firefighter in Monroe County for about 25 years. He embraced training, and had participated in numerous courses with the Florida State Fire College. When the fire department in Conch Key went career a few years ago, he joined Layton.

"He was a go-getter. He was very involved," Haring said. "I've known him for a really long time..."

Funeral Information

Fire personnel wishing to be part of the procession should meet on Conch Key at 5 p.m. Monday, July 28. The procession to Marathon will begin at 6 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 7 at the Trauma Star hangar on Overseas Highway in Marathon.