Seagrove Rural Volunteer Fire Department is mourning the death of one of its own.
The department announced on its Facebook page that longtime firefighter Mishael James "MJ" Auman, 37, died unexpectedly Saturday. He served the Seagrove community for 21 years.
“This is a devastating blow to the fire service, in which MJ had very strong ties to, especially Randolph County. The thoughts, prayers, and condolences have not gone unnoticed. We are forever grateful for everyone who has reached out during this difficult time,” Seagrove Rural Volunteer Fire Department said in part. Auman was also a former firefighter with the Ramseur Fire Department. The department said he was one of its first paid personnel and helped build the program from the ground up.