Pennsylvania Firefighter Dies from Burns Suffered in Blaze

PITTSBURGH --

A firefighter hurt in the line of duty has died.

Brad Holmes had been in critical condition at UPMC Mercy. He had burns on 75 percent of his body after running into a burning Grove City home on Friday.

Holmes died around 5:15 a.m. Wednesday.

His colleagues have draped an American flag in his locker. They have also posted a memo board where firefighters from around the area are writing words of encouragement.

Phone calls of support are coming in from across the nation. His colleagues are also making sure Holmes' family is taken care of.

Firefighter John Nicklin said, "We're taking turns, running shifts down to stay with the family, be with the family. I mean, they need our support. They need everyone's support, their prayers."

Patricia Andrews-Smith died in the fire when she went back in to save her dog, which had already escaped.

Investigators said a hair dryer left running on a couch sparked the fire.

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Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at Cunningham Funeral Home, 306 Bessemer Ave., Grove City, with a firefighter tribute at 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday in the gymnasium at Grove City College.