UTV Accident Claims Firefighter's LifeThe UTV rolled over, fatally injuring Sharkevich. Three other Wethersfield firefighters also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals.“It’s devastating. This job is dangerous, whether inside a building or out in the wilderness,” said Berlin Fire Chief John Massirio. He added that his department will offer support to the Wethersfield Fire Department during this difficult time.Sharkevich’s Legacy and Community Impact
Sharkevich was a retired Hartford firefighter who continued to serve his community as a volunteer with Wethersfield. He also worked as a Physical Services Carpenter for Wethersfield Public Schools, where he was well-known among students and staff.
Wethersfield Superintendent Michael Emmett expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Sharky was more than just a colleague—he was a parent, grandparent, and a cherished member of our school community. Counseling will be available for staff and students tomorrow.”Governor Lamont addressed the tragedy on social media, sharing his condolences. A procession escorted Sharkevich’s body from Berlin to the medical examiner’s office in Farmington, with fire and police units from across Connecticut joining to honor the fallen hero.Ongoing Battle with the Hawthorne Fire
Firefighters remain engaged in controlling the brush fire, which started Monday evening on Lamentation Mountain. Crews from several towns, including Wethersfield, Rocky Hill, and Newington, have been working to prevent the blaze from spreading further.The steep and rocky terrain has made containment efforts challenging. Teams are focused on building a perimeter to prevent the fire from expanding, and drones are being used to monitor the fire’s progress. Despite the difficulties, no homes have been threatened, and no evacuation orders are expected.Additional Support and Red Flag Warnings
With more than 80 acres already burned, authorities have called in aerial support from Maine, expected to drop water by morning. The Connecticut National Guard has also authorized the use of Black Hawk helicopters to aid the firefighting effort.Officials have declared a red flag warning across the state, citing dry conditions and the ongoing fire risk. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with reports suggesting previous campfire activity in the area.
Sharkevich was a retired Hartford firefighter who continued to serve his community as a volunteer with Wethersfield. He also worked as a Physical Services Carpenter for Wethersfield Public Schools, where he was well-known among students and staff.
Wethersfield Superintendent Michael Emmett expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Sharky was more than just a colleague—he was a parent, grandparent, and a cherished member of our school community. Counseling will be available for staff and students tomorrow.”Governor Lamont addressed the tragedy on social media, sharing his condolences. A procession escorted Sharkevich’s body from Berlin to the medical examiner’s office in Farmington, with fire and police units from across Connecticut joining to honor the fallen hero.Ongoing Battle with the Hawthorne FireFirefighters remain engaged in controlling the brush fire, which started Monday evening on Lamentation Mountain. Crews from several towns, including Wethersfield, Rocky Hill, and Newington, have been working to prevent the blaze from spreading further.The steep and rocky terrain has made containment efforts challenging. Teams are focused on building a perimeter to prevent the fire from expanding, and drones are being used to monitor the fire’s progress. Despite the difficulties, no homes have been threatened, and no evacuation orders are expected.Additional Support and Red Flag Warnings
With more than 80 acres already burned, authorities have called in aerial support from Maine, expected to drop water by morning. The Connecticut National Guard has also authorized the use of Black Hawk helicopters to aid the firefighting effort.Officials have declared a red flag warning across the state, citing dry conditions and the ongoing fire risk. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with reports suggesting previous campfire activity in the area.
