Identity released of veteran firefighter who died after falling into Delaware River
Flax said Bennett was performing a routine maintenance check on a fireboat when he fell into the water.
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Camden City officials have identified a veteran firefighter who died after falling into the icy Delaware River.
He was identified Friday morning as 61-year-old Howard Bennett.
Camden City Fire Chief Jesse Flax said during a news conference that the incident happened around 11:30 a.m. Thursday.
Flax said Bennett was performing a routine maintenance check on a fireboat when he fell into the water at the Wiggins Park Marina in Camden. Officials say he was pulled from the water after about 30 minutes.
He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen referred to Bennett as a beloved husband and father.
Carstarphen said the city will help provide support to Bennett's family and the Camden City Fire Department.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill wrote in a statement, Devastated by the tragic passing of a veteran firefighter today in South Jersey. My thoughts are with his family and the Camden Fire Department during this difficult time."
