ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. — With heavy hearts, the Rockdale County community is mourning Firefighter Juan Antonia Smith II, who was killed Friday when a Rockdale County Fire Rescue truck overturned while he was on duty.
Smith, who had served with the department for two and a half years, was identified Saturday as the firefighter lost in the tragic rollover crash. He died doing what he had sworn to do — protecting and serving others.
In a statement Saturday, Rockdale County Fire Rescue called Smith “a dedicated public servant who answered the call to protect and serve others.”
“His service, sacrifice, and commitment to our community will never be forgotten,” the department added.
The crash happened Friday evening at a Rockdale County intersection when the fire apparatus overturned. Smith was aboard the truck at the time. Gov. Brian Kemp and county leaders have expressed condolences, with flags lowered to half-staff across county facilities in his honor.
Fellow firefighters describe Smith as committed, courageous, and proud to wear the uniform. In just two and a half years, he made an impact that will outlive his time on the job — through the calls he ran, the crew he stood beside, and the lives he touched.
The Georgia State Patrol continues to investigate what caused the apparatus to overturn.
Funeral arrangements for Firefighter Juan Antonia Smith II have not yet been announced. The department is asking the community to keep Smith’s family and his firehouse brothers and sisters in their prayers.
Smith answered his final call Friday. Rockdale County will remember him for his sacrifice, his service, and the life he gave to others.
REST IN PEACE, Firefighter Smith. 🙏
Rockdale County Firefighter Juan Antonia Smith II, 2-Year Veteran, Dies in Line-of-Duty Rollover Crash
