Firefighters honored for heroism

Two Gluckstadt firefighters were honored for their part in helping to save the life of a firefighter whose heart stopped when he came into contact with downed power lines responding to a call in early April.

GFD firefighter Justin Wells and Battalion Chief Andy Divine Jr., who were among the first on scene and administered life-saving aid to Canton firefighter Anthony Walker, were honored by the city of Canton during a ceremony on Monday, May 5.

The award reads in part, “You are a prime example of the pride we take in our job and the selfless acts that our men and women make to help others.”

GFD Division Chief Dustin Perry said in a statement from the Gluckstadt Fire Department that they were proud of Wells and Divine.

“We are incredibly proud of Firefighter Wells and Battalion Chief Divine for their valor—and grateful beyond words that Anthony Walker is doing well,” Perry said. “We’re thankful to serve alongside such an extraordinary community of first responders here in Madison County.”

Wells was serving in his role with the Canton Fire Department on that day. Divine was on the scene in his role with the Farmhaven Volunteer Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to a tree that fell on a power line at about 3:30 p.m. on April 2, on Renfroe Road near the intersection with Sharon Road.

Walker was critically injured on the scene after coming into contact with the downed power line, and his heart stopped. 

“In that moment of crisis, fellow firefighters and first responders jumped into action without hesitation,” Perry said.

He went on to say, “Because of the quick actions, training, and teamwork of everyone involved that night, Anthony's life was saved. From those who delivered care to those who ensured the scene was safe and support was coordinated, every role mattered.”

The firefighter was then transported to Merit Health in Canton and then airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Assistant Fire Chief Kelvin Luckett said.