The West Seneca community and the local emergency services network are in mourning following the tragic death of Tyler Schenck, a 29-year-old firefighter who lost his life in a single-car accident in Elma on Saturday night.
According to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. on August 22. Deputies discovered the scene on the front lawn of a residence located on Clinton Street, near Aurora Street. Witnesses reported that a pickup truck struck a utility pole before colliding with a tree, causing the driver to be ejected from the vehicle.
Schenck was the sole occupant of the truck at the time of the crash. Although deputies arrived quickly and immediately began lifesaving efforts, they were unable to find a pulse. Emergency medical interventions were terminated just before 11:00 p.m. when Schenck was officially pronounced deceased.
The loss is being felt deeply across multiple agencies. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Seneca Hose Fire Company Chief Dylan Seufert expressed the profound sadness of the department. “It is with great sadness that we notify you of the loss of one of our members, Tyler Schenck,” Seufert stated.
Schenck was a dedicated public servant with an extensive background in emergency response. Beyond his role with the Seneca Hose Fire Company, he served with the Erie County Department of Health’s EMS Division, the Erie County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Services’ Hazardous Materials Response Team, and Hamburg EMS. He was also a former member of the Reserve Fire Company.
“Tyler was not only a valued and respected member of our organization,” Chief Seufert added, highlighting the significant impact Schenck had on the region’s safety and service.
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with additional information regarding the crash to contact their non-emergency number at (716) 858-2903.
