Community of Chaffee shows support for injured firefighter

CHAFFEE Mo. (KBSI) – The Chaffee Fire Department and surrounding communities are working together in support of firefighter Seger Ruiz after a tragic car crash.

On September 14, Ruiz was involved in a three vehicle car crash that left him severely injured and airlifted to a hospital in St. Louis.

Chaffee firefighters were distraught after finding out about the tragic event, so they came up with the idea to throw a roadblock fundraiser on September 16 to show support.

Within three hours, the fire department was able to collect $3600 with the help of the community.

“There are several people, several businesses that have donated,” said Assistant Fire Chief Cody Johnson.

“Losing someone like Seger is more tremendous. The kid, like I said is, to know Seger is to love him,” Johnson added as he reflected on Ruiz’s absence from the fire station.

The impact that Ruiz had on the community is so strong that not even the rain could postpone a prayer circle that was to be held at Circle Park Sunday night.

“The prayer circle got moved to the Chaffee Highschool gym around about 7 p.m., and had a really good turnout for that,” said Adam Horton.

Seger is still in the hospital and now able to move his upper body.

Anyone can still show support to Seger by donating to his bank account at Bank of Advance to assist with medical bills.