‘Hole in our hearts’: 2 with NC community fire rescue squad die in two days; 22-year veteran and teen are honored

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Firefighters in North Carolina are mourning the loss of a junior firefighter who they said died in a “horrific accident” over the weekend.

Gabriel “Gabe” Ennis was with Cordova Fire Rescue in Richmond County, according to officials with the agency.

Ennis, 16, died from a gunshot wound Sunday along Wallace Road in the Ellerbe community, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s office and the Richmond Observer.

No details were released about the shooting.

“Today, we mourn the heartbreaking loss of an exceptional member of Cordova Fire and Rescue,” the agency wrote on social media. “He had a heart full of compassion—always quick to lend a hand and even quicker to make others smile.”

The loss was especially difficult for Cordova Fire Rescue after they said their final goodbyes Saturday to another firefighter on their team who died.

Scottie Brigman, 50, died on Friday at First Health Moore Regional Hospital, surrounded by his family, his obituary said.

Brigman was a lieutenant with Cordova Fire and Rescue for 22 years, according to his obituary.

Early in June, the fire-rescue squad held a community prayer vigil for Brigman at the fire station. On Saturday, firefighters gathered to remember Brigman.

“Scottie was family to us all and he held a special piece of our heart. Today, we honored him with a moment of silence, balloon release, and heartfelt prayer,” Cordova Fire Rescue officials said. “Lt. Scottie Brigman was more than a member and way more than just an officer.”

The agency noted the hard time the fire and rescue team was having with the deaths.

“Please pray for the family and for our family during this tragic time,” Cordova Fire Rescue said.

Ennis had a large impact on the department, officials said.

“From the moment he walked through our doors, Gabe was eager to learn and embraced every bit of knowledge shared by his fellow members,” Cordova fire said. “No words can fully express the pain we are feeling today. This tragic loss leaves a hole in our hearts that can never be filled.”