Wilmington: Funeral arrangements have been announced for Wilmington Fire Departments most seriously injured firefighter who succumbed to her injuries as a result of a September 24th fire in Wilmington in which officials claim was the result of arson.
- A public viewing will take place on Saturday December 10th from 10:00 A.M. to 12 Noon at the Chase Center on the riverfront located at 815 Justison St. in Wilmington.
- A full firefighters funeral will commence at 1:00 P.M. The family will have a reception at the Chase center immediately following the service.
@WilmFireDept Senior Firefighter Ardythe Hopes Public Viewing & Funeral-Memorial Services Announced. Help us Honor her Dedication & Valor! pic.twitter.com/FLvjlLS7YB
— Anthony S. Goode (@AnthonySGoode) December 3, 2016
The woman accused of setting the fire, Beatriz Fana-Ruiz will likely face an additional murder charge. The fire was the result of arson and claimed the life of two other firefighters, CAPT. Christopher Leach and LT. Jerry Fickes.
According to court documents, Fana-Ruiz told investigators she was drunk and on anxiety medication when she went to the basement to get her things. Instead, investigators say she confessed to lighting the fire in the basement.
Beatriz Fana-Ruiz was charged with two counts of first-degree murder; one count of first-degree arson; four counts of second-degree assault in the injuries of other firefighters involved; and seven counts of reckless endangerment, according to the state Fire Marshal’s Office.
Hopes passing marks the third firefighter killed in the line of duty in over two decades. It is also Wilmington Fire Department’s worst fire in it’s departments history.
For those interested in participating with the service are encouraged to call 856-275-8933 or visit the Wilmington Fire Department web page at www.wilmingtonfirefighters.org for more information.
