FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Earlier today, a former volunteer with the department was arrested on charges of First Degree Arson stemming from the ongoing investigation into a number of arson fires in the area. He was arrested by out-of-state law enforcement agencies and awaits extradition back to Prince George’s County to stand trial for his alleged actions.

The Riverdale Fire Department has continued to cooperate with the PGF/EMSD and other law enforcement agencies during the course of this investigation. The Prince George’s County Fire Investigators were assisted by Special Agents for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the County Police Department in the investigation that led to the arrest. If convicted, this individual may face up to 30 years of potential prison time, fines up to $50,000 or both.

This arrest should in no way reflect on the dedication that the majority of volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel put forth each and every day protecting life and property. The Riverdale Fire Department and the many other volunteer organizations continue to provide a professional and competent volunteer force answering the majority of fire and EMS calls during nights, weekends and holidays. We continue to reinforce our commitment to the Town of Riverdale Park and the surrounding communities. The department stands steadfast against any such activity.

While these are the alleged actions of an individual, we as a department sincerely apologize to the community and ask that you not prejudge all volunteers on the basis of these allegations. As in any profession, there are those that do not act responsibly, and they will be called to answer. We appreciate the support we have received during the entire course of the investigation from our fellow volunteers and community, and we stand true to our motto: Always Ready to Serve.

This is the only statement, public or private, that the department will issue on this matter.

Thursday December 22, the members of Riverdale Fire Department once again teamed up with the Town of Riverdale Park to assist them with the Toys For Tots delivery. Santa showed up at the fire station early to start the ride just before 1800hrs. The Town of Riverdale Park Code Enforcement had deliveries for about 30 families, including one family that The Riverdale Fire Department adopted for a second year in a row. Santa always brings a crowd, but even more, when he shows up in his trusty sleigh Engine 72. The Riverdale Fire Department along with Code Enforcement and Santa worked for several hours delivering presents. The Riverdale Fire Department is always excited and willing to help the town with assisting families in need.

Once again, Santa Claus has joined forces with the Riverdale Fire Department and on Christmas Eve will parade through the town before heading out on his World Tour.  The membership of the department, family members, and friends will gather at the station just before dusk to board apparatus, and other vehicles to share goodwill throughout the Town of Riverdale Park.

The residents of the Town have come to expect this yearly visit from Santa, and many plan their Holiday gatherings in anticipation of his visit.  As always, our mission to protect and serve is primary and at times delays Santa's arrival, but through hard work, dedication and sometimes repetition, all areas of the Town (even those that are not in our primary response area) should eventually be covered. 

This event, while manadatory for the membership and taking place on an evening where most people are at home with their families, is always looked forward to and enjoyed by all.  It is our way of saying:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

At 0445 hrs. Engine 73 was clearing a medic local when PSC dispatched the box for a reported house on fire in the rear of 5322 Taylor Road in the Town of Riverdale Park.  Engine 73 and Chief 7B responded with a total of 5 personnel and quickly arrived on the scene to find a garage on fire in the rear of the reported address.  Engine 73 advanced their line and Chief 7B assumed the command.  Engine 73 knocked the fire as Truck 1 opened up the structure and Engine 94 protected the exposures.  The fire was knocked in less then 15 minutes.  Command scaled back the units to Engines 73, 94, and Truck 1.  Engine 73 cleared the scene just after 0700 hrs. after the fire marshals had completed their investigation.