SAN CARLOS PARK, Fla. — South Trail Fire Rescue says one of their own died in Wednesday morning's house fire.
The agency confirms firefighter/EMT Michael "Mike" McCarty died in the fire at his home.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office and the Bureau of Fire Arson Explosives Investigations are conducting the death investigation.
WATCH HOW NEIGHBORS DESCRIBE THE SCENE OF THE WEDNESDAY MORNING FIRE:
"Out of respect for Mike’s family, the South Trail Fire & Rescue family, and to maintain the integrity of the investigation, we are not releasing further details at this time," South Trail Fire said in a statement. "This is a devastating unexpected loss for our department, and our love and strength are with his family, friends, and fellow firefighters. He was a valued member of our family and dedicated his life to serving others. We ask for privacy and compassion during this difficult time."
His cause of death has not been released. However, the statement mentioned the importance of mental health.
"We also want to take this moment to emphasize the importance of mental health wellness, especially within the first responder community. We urge anyone who is struggling to reach out, and all of us to reach in to check on each other," the statement said.
McCarty started at the fire department on July 11, 2002. He was also employed with Upper Captiva Fire.
In Loving Memory of Firefighter McCarty
We remember you for the heart of gold you carried and the smile that lit up every room—so genuine, so contagious. You served our country with honor and our community with unwavering dedication and grace.
As a newbie, I’ll never forget how you always took the time to help, to answer my questions, and to guide with patience. You blended in with the crew like we were just a group of friends hanging out—but the moment those tones dropped, you were all business, all heart, ready to serve.
Your presence made a difference. Your legacy will not fade.
Rest easy, Firefighter McCarty. Your watch is over. Your service is complete. You will never be forgotten.
Crystal & your UC191 team on “the Rock” Upper Captiva Fire & Rescue District
The firefighter started his career with the City of Fort Myers Fire Department from September 2000-July 2002. McCarty was also a Marine veteran.
Fire departments from around Southwest Florida have been sharing their condolences since the news broke and heeding the importance of the department's message focusing on mental health wellness.
Just before noon Wednesday, residents say they were jolted by a thunderous boom that shook homes.
RELATED: One dead in San Carlos Park house fire
Witnesses say the blaze tore through the house in minutes.
“It went through the house so fast, and the roof...it was awful. It was really awful to watch,” said a neighbor said.
Dan Martin, who lives several homes away, recalled a similar experience.
“It was very loud—maybe like a bomb hitting. It shook the whole house,” he said. “I ran outside and saw smoke rising.”
First responders received the call at 11:21 a.m Wednesday for a structure fire on Caloosa Trace Circle.
