Silver City Firefighter Hurt In Florida Storm Response

A Silver City firefighter was injured in Florida Sunday. Zach Collins was taken by medical helicopter to a Florida hospital after a tree fell on him as he was helping with clean up following Hurricane Matthew, according to Silver City Fire Chief Jason Bradley.

Bradley said Collins was working with a contracted crew that responds to many different disasters including California wildfires this summer.

The young firefighter sustained numerous injuries including a punctured lung and kidney, Bradley said. Collins' mother was flying to be at his side, the chief said.

The chief could not confirm exactly where in Florida Collins was working when the tree fell on him.

A Facebook post by Chief Bradley states:

"Prayers for Zach Collins and family - this is one of my most dedicated volunteer firefighters here at Silver City Fire! He was helping with his crew down in Florida when he was struck by a tree and is in critical but stable condition! This boy has dedicated his life to serve the community in high school and out of high school! Always there when needed! Now he needs our prayers and support towards him and his family! Very proud to call him my brother and one of our own! When others are running away he and we run in and do the best we can with Gods help!"

Collins is an Olive resident, according to his Facebook page. Silver City Fire Department is located in Jennings. The department held a prayer vigil for Collins Sunday night.