LEESBURG, Va. – Community members in Loudoun County came together on Friday night to support the firefighters affected by a devastating home explosion in Sterling. The fundraiser, organized by the Loudoun First Responders Foundation (LFRF), aimed to provide financial assistance to the 11 injured firefighters and the family of 45-year-old volunteer Trevor Brown, who tragically lost his life in the explosion.
LFRF pledged to donate all funds raised since February 16th to the designated fund for the injured firefighters and Brown’s family, with a commitment to continue allocating 100% of raised funds until March 16th. The foundation hosted a fish fry event in Leesburg, supported by Fleur De Cuisine, as a gesture of support just days before Brown’s funeral.
Key figures from the Loudoun County Fire & Rescue department, along with other first responders and political leaders, attended the event to show their solidarity with the affected individuals. Loudoun County Board Chair, Phyllis Randall, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of providing immediate financial support to meet the needs of the first responders during this challenging time.
Tina Johnson, president of LFRF, highlighted the foundation’s role in assisting with medical expenses, mortgages, and other financial necessities for the first responders. Natalie Ramos, CEO of Fleur De Cuisine, shared her emotional connection to the cause, stating the night was a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can make in a community.
Mike Reilly, an investigator with Loudoun County Fire & Rescue, emphasized the significance of supporting the injured firefighters, particularly volunteer Brian Diamond, who is still hospitalized in a burn unit. Diamond is expected to remain in the unit for the next month, underscoring the ongoing need for assistance and care for those affected by the explosion.