Eau Claire Firefighter Killed, Another Injured in Early Morning Shooting
Eau Claire Firefighter Killed, Another Injured in Early Morning Shooting
In the quiet hours of early Saturday morning, a shooting rocked the small village of Eau Claire, Michigan, leaving one man dead and another injured. Around 12:45 a.m., officers from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the intersection of Main Street and Elm Street following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they encountered two men suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the men was found unresponsive, and both were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical care. Tragically, the unresponsive victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The deceased was later identified by authorities as 36-year-old Chad Medlin, a respected firefighter from Benton Harbor who was known for his service and commitment to the Eau Claire community. The fire department confirmed his identity in a heartfelt social media post, describing Medlin as a dedicated team member and a beloved figure within the firehouse. “Chad was not just a colleague but a friend and family member to all of us,” the statement read, capturing the shock and sorrow that his loss has stirred within the community.
The second individual injured in the incident has not been publicly named, and officials have clarified that his injuries are not life-threatening. His condition, while serious, is reported to be stable, and he is expected to recover fully.
The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office acted swiftly to identify and apprehend a suspect in the shooting. Rigoberto Gomez, a 47-year-old Eau Claire resident, was detained shortly after the incident and is now facing multiple charges related to the fatal shooting. Gomez was booked into the Berrien County Jail, and authorities have yet to release a detailed account of the charges or possible motives behind the incident. The Sheriff’s Office has also refrained from providing additional details about the events leading up to the shooting, stating that the investigation is ongoing.
News of Medlin’s death has left Eau Claire residents in a state of grief, struggling to come to terms with the violent event that has now become part of their community’s history. A firefighter for several years, Medlin was known for his warmth, dedication, and willingness to help others, both on and off duty. Colleagues remember him as a “hero,” someone who risked his life to serve and protect others. His loss, compounded by the violent circumstances surrounding it, has left many residents shaken.
Members of the local fire department gathered over the weekend to pay tribute to Medlin, placing flowers and a framed photo of him at the station in his honor. Local officials, fellow firefighters, friends, and neighbors have also expressed their condolences to Medlin’s family, emphasizing the void his death leaves in the community. The Eau Claire Fire Department shared their grief with the public through a Facebook post, describing Medlin as a “trusted colleague and friend” who was always ready to step up in times of need.
The incident has prompted calls for heightened security measures and increased police presence in Eau Claire, a village known for its peaceful, small-town charm. As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials have assured residents that they are working diligently to uncover the full story behind the tragic events of Saturday morning. The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office has encouraged anyone with additional information regarding the shooting to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could be crucial to the case.
In addition to gathering more details about the incident, investigators are working to determine whether there is any broader threat to the community or if this was an isolated incident between individuals known to one another. Authorities have also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially in the wake of recent concerns about public safety in the area.
The fatal shooting has underscored the fragility of life and the unpredictability of violence, even in tight-knit communities like Eau Claire. As family, friends, and colleagues prepare to lay Medlin to rest, the community faces a difficult period of healing. For many, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice shown by first responders, who willingly place themselves in harm’s way to serve the public. Medlin’s commitment to his work as a firefighter will be remembered as a testament to his courage and compassion.
The community’s support for his family is unwavering, with various fundraisers and memorials being organized to help honor his memory and assist those closest to him during this painful time.
