Nixon fire chief hospitalized

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NIXON — Officials reported that Fire Chief Mark Mendez was hospitalized after being electrocuted while fighting a fire in Wilson County Friday.

Mayor Gladyne Finch said Mendez, along with members of Nixon and Wilson County Fire Departments, were dispatched to an electrical fire off Highway 87. It was reported that an electrical line was down and was touching a fence, and that when Mendez (unknowing of this) touched the fence he was electrocuted and rendered unconscious.

Mendez was airlifted to SAMC in San Antonio, where he was reported to be in critical but stable condition.

Reports said Mendez had to be sedated due to complications during his recovery. Finch noted that hospital staff plans to gradually reduce the sedation, starting today, and that they will run further tests to monitor his condition.

“Once the sedation is lowered, they may be able to talk to him, he can [tell them] how he’s feeling, and they can assess [his condition],” Finch said.

The City of Nixon held a prayer vigil for Mendez at the town’s pavilion Sunday night, during which a crowd of around 80 people offered prayers for Mendez’s recovery. There, a collection was taken up that raised $1,165.

“We’re hoping that will help Mark’s family with everything they need,” Finch said. “We wish him a speedy recovery.”

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