The Camden community is grieving the loss of a veteran firefighter who died in the line of duty after a tragic accident on the Delaware River. Howard Bennett, a 61-year-old member of the Camden Fire Department, died Thursday after falling into the ice-covered river while performing a routine maintenance check on a fire boat, officials confirmed.

The incident occurred around 11 a.m. at Wiggins Waterfront Park, a familiar worksite for marine operations. According to the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey, Bennett was conducting standard maintenance duties when he fell through the ice and into the frigid waters below. The river was partially frozen at the time, making rescue efforts extremely challenging.

Multiple rescue boats from the Camden Fire Department, along with assistance from neighboring agencies, responded immediately. Firefighters worked urgently, cutting through thick ice to reach Bennett. After approximately 30 minutes, he was pulled from the river and rushed to Cooper University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Union leaders and city officials remembered Bennett as a dedicated public servant who spent decades protecting the Camden community. He was also described as a devoted family man whose loss will be deeply felt both at home and within the fire service.

Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen expressed condolences to Bennett’s family and colleagues, calling the incident a heartbreaking reminder of the risks firefighters face even outside of emergency calls. The mayor also praised the swift and determined actions of first responders who worked tirelessly in dangerous conditions to try to save their fellow firefighter.