Tributes pour in following sudden death of young Dublin firefighter

Tributes have been paid following the unexpected passing of a ‘tremendously popular and highly respected’ Dublin Fire Brigade member.

David Stafford, who hailed from East Wall in north Dublin, died “unexpectedly at home” on Thursday, as confirmed in a death notice published by his family on RIP.ie.

David is being fondly remembered as the “beloved Partner of Steph and loving Father of Blake and Quinn” who will be “sadly, missed by his father Gerry, Sister Mandy and brothers Philip and Stephen, Grandmother Sheila, brothers-in-law, Darren and Anthony, Sisters-in-law, Michelle, Nicola and Sarah, extended family, Colleagues, friends and neighbours”.

The devoted father-of-two became part of Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) as an Emergency Services Controller in January 2019 before moving to the role of Recruit Firefighter / Paramedic in 2022. Throughout his time with DFB, David maintained an outstanding service record and made a lasting impact on his workmates.

Dublin Fire Brigade has shared a heartfelt tribute to David after his untimely death, with fellow staff members praising his commitment and expertise during his service, reports the Irish Mirror.

“All at Dublin Fire Brigade are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend David Stafford, Badge 750,” a DFB spokesperson said. “Dave joined Dublin Fire Brigade as an Emergency Service Controller and worked his way to Firefighter/Paramedic.

“Based in North Strand, David was an exceptionally well-liked and well thought of young man and Firefighter/Paramedic, in every aspect of his life and work, he held an exemplary record in DFB. He will be sorely missed by all, especially his crew in North Strand.”

The tribute sparked an overwhelming wave of sympathy from David’s colleagues and friends, with one person writing: “I am so sorry to hear about the passing of David – such a young man with a great love for the job – Condolences to his family and friends – and to his second family in the Dublin Fire Brigade – and especially to his mate’s in North Strand Fire Station – Sleep tight David – your shift is over.”

A second colleague shared: “It was a pleasure to work with you Dave, we shared an ambulance duty on a few occasions. You did your job calmly, with no fuss and you did it well. My sincere condolences C Watch North Strand and to your family.”

Meanwhile, a third person mourning his loss wrote: “An absolute gentleman. Rest in peace David. My condolences to the family. Heartbreaking.”

Dublin councillor Malachy Steenson also honoured the young firefighter in a heartfelt social media tribute which stated: “Our deepest condolences to the family of David Stafford who passed away on Thursday. David was a lovely young man, a father of two, a partner, son and firefighter. He will be deeply missed within the community.

“Stephanie, Gerry, David’s two little ones and indeed all his family and friends will be in our thoughts and prayers this weekend. RIP David, Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

David will be laid in repose at his residence from 5pm to 7pm on Monday. The funeral procession will move on Tuesday morning to St. Joseph’s Church, East Wall for the Funeral Mass at 11am, followed by interment in New Balgriffin Cemetery.

Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.