Firefighter, 70, dies after rescuing farm animals trapped inside a collapsed building

ALLEGHANY COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ/Gray News) - A longtime first responder in Virginia has died in the line of duty.

According to Boiling Springs Volunteer Fire and Rescue, firefighter Steve A. Weikle, 70, died after responding to a structure collapse on Thursday.

Fire crews said Weikle responded with the Boiling Springs Volunteer Fire and Rescue to a structure collapse with farm animals trapped inside the building.

Firefighters were able to rescue the animals, but shortly after responding to the call, Weikle was found in cardiac arrest outside of his home.

Officials said since the medical emergency happened within 24 hours of running an active call, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation considers Weikle’s passing a line-of-duty death.

Weikle served as a firefighter for 49 years with Boiling Springs Volunteer Fire and Rescue.

He will be laid to rest with full fire department honors.