Official websites use .gov

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock () or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

David Merle Pack

Firefighter forestry Aide I

Forestry Aide I Pack responded to what was described as a “routine” woodland fire. Other firefighters spoke with him as they responded to the incident. At the conclusion of the incident, Forestry Aide I Pack’s pickup truck was found at the edge of a pond near the fire area, the headlights were on and the engine was running. After a foot search failed to locate Forestry Technician I Pack, a search dog was called in. The dog led searchers to Forestry Aide I Pack’s body in the pond. His body was recovered. The reason for Forestry Aide I Pack’s presence in the pond is unknown. He died of drowning. Alcohol consumption may have been a factor in this death.
photo of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
David Merle Pack was included in the USFA’s annual report Firefighter Fatalities in the United States.

Department information

TN Department of Agriculture - Forestry Division
390 South Lowe
Suite 10
Cookville, Tennessee 38501-4702

Chief: Rick Merinar - District Forester

Age: 63
Rank: Firefighter forestry Aide I
Classification: Career
Incident date: October 29, 1999 20:45
Date of death: October 30, 1999
Cause of fatal injury: Other
Nature of fatal injury: Drowning
Activity type: Other
Emergency duty: Yes
Duty type: On-Scene Fire
Fixed property use: Outdoor Property

Last updated: May 30, 2018