LODD: Hillsborough Township Volunteer Firefighter Dies In Line Of Duty

July 14, 2021

HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP, NJ – The Hillsborough Township Fire District announced a line of duty death of Assistant Chief William Shaffer a 35 year veteran and volunteer at Hillsborough Fire Company #2, Station 37.

The press release reads:

On July 14, 2021, at 1:18 p.m., Hillsborough Fire Company # 1 and # 2 and district career staff responded to Copart Salvage Auctions located at 2124 Camplain Road for a motor vehicle fire, upon arrival units found a well-involved car fire and began extinguishment. Shortly after extinguishment was under way Hillsborough Fire Company # 2 Assistant Chief William Shaffer suffered a medical emergency on scene. He was evaluated and treated by members on scene and transported to RWJ Somerset Hospital by RWJ BLS ambulance. Upon arrival at the hospital, RWJ hospital staff were unable to revive Assistant Chief Shaffer and he passed away.

Assistant Chief Shaffer was a very active member of the Hillsborough Fire Company #2 (Station 37) faithfully serving the citizens of Hillsborough Township for over 35 years, he is survived by his wife Marian and three children. The Hillsborough Board of Fire Commissioners wish to convey their sincere condolences to his family and Hillsborough Fire Company # 2 and thank him for many years of service, may he rest in peace.

Hillsborough Mayor Sean Lipani said, “Hillsborough experienced great sadness today with the untimely passing of one of our dedicated volunteer Fireman Billy Shaffer. Weather you knew him from 37 or from seeing him work at ShopRite, Billy always had a smile and a good word. Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Marian and his entire family. He will be sorely missed. Rest easy Billy.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced in the near future.