Lithuanian firefighters hold minute of silence to honour fallen colleague

Lithuania’s firefighters will observe a minute of silence on Thursday to honour Albinas Karaliūnas, a colleague who died while battling a wildfire in Lazdijai district, the Fire Protection and Rescue Department (PAGD) announced.

At fire stations nationwide, flags will be lowered to half-mast, off-duty crews will line up in formation, and emergency vehicles will activate their blue lights as part of the tribute, according to the department’s statement. The public has also been invited to join in remembering Karaliūnas.

“This loss reminds us once again how complex and dangerous the work of firefighters is, and what a high price is sometimes paid in the line of duty,” the PAGD said, extending condolences to the firefighter’s family, colleagues, and friends.

Karaliūnas, born in 1966, collapsed at the scene of a forest fire in Veisiejai eldership on Wednesday morning. Emergency responders attempted resuscitation, but his death was confirmed at 9:29 AM. The fire, reported at 7:30 AM, was fully extinguished by 10:22 AM after joint efforts by national and municipal firefighting teams.

Lazdijai Mayor Ausma Miškinienė described Karaliūnas as both a dedicated firefighter and an active community member. She confirmed that an investigation into the circumstances of his death will be conducted and that the municipality will provide financial support to his family.

Approximately 10 hectares of forest burned in the incident.