Harlingen firefighters have reached out to colleagues in Weslaco following the Oct. 28 deaths of two firefighters, offering support as the department and families mourn.
Harlingen Professional Fire Fighter Association President Evan Mann said members contacted Weslaco firefighters after learning of the deaths, first reported by KRGV.
The firefighters who died were Johnny Peña, 43, and Julia Rocha, 21. Weslaco officials described the deaths as an off-duty incident and said the circumstances remained under investigation.
Firefighters remember colleagues
Peña was a 19-year veteran of the Weslaco Fire Department who served as a lieutenant, firefighter and paramedic. He also worked as a registered nurse.
Rocha had recently completed her probationary period and was the department's first woman firefighter in its 102-year history, according to MySA's reporting on their lives and service.
The Weslaco Firefighters Association thanked the Rio Grande Valley community for its condolences and support.
In a Nov. 2 report by FOX RGV, the association asked residents to continue keeping both families and the department's members in their thoughts.
Valley departments offer support
The deaths have affected firefighters beyond Weslaco, including members of Harlingen's association who knew the two firefighters.
Mann encouraged fellow firefighters to maintain contact with friends and colleagues during difficult times.
Firefighters from McAllen and Donna also helped cover emergency calls in Weslaco while department members grieved, KRGV reported.
The broader response reflects the connections among fire departments that regularly serve communities throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Investigation continues
Weslaco police have not publicly established how the firefighters died.
According to the latest published account of the investigation, autopsy results remained pending as of Nov. 4.
The Weslaco Police Department has withheld additional details while the investigation continues.
