The Kenilworth Fire Department is mourning the loss of one of its own.
Shawn Kelly joined the department in 2005 after graduating from Union County Fire Academy. There, he earned his Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications.
He also obtained his New Jersey state EMT certification that same year. Kelly was also a member of the Union County Police/Fire Pipes and Drums.
Through his time on the department he achieved the ranks of lieutenant, captain, and president of the department.
"I've always regarded Shawn, as well as his Dad, pillars of the KFD," said Tom Soltysik. "I'm so sorry to hear this news."
"Shawn was a stand out guy good guy in a department full of good guys," someone else wrote.
"Whether it was going to work on a job, poking fun at each other, or just joking back at the firehouse after a 3AM false alarm... Just a great guy, who will be missed."