During what was an otherwise joyous occasion Tuesday that saw Vicksburg Fire Department (VFD) graduate its first class of in-house cadets, a somber shift in the mood hung in the air as VPD honored two young firefighters killed a year ago to the date in a car accident on Interstate 20 in Vicksburg.

Family, friends and colleagues of the late Jarod Squire and Derico Davis lit candles in front of matted photos of the deceased firefighters and in remembrance of two lives cut tragically short. Squire, 26, and Davis, 18, were killed when Squire reportedly lost control of the car the pair was traveling in while exiting onto Clay Street from I-20 on the way back from a Halloween party.

“On the morning of Sunday, October 29, 2023, a profound sorrow overwhelmed me as I received the heartbreaking news that no chief ever wishes to hear,” Vicksburg Fire Chief Derrick Stamps said of the deadly accident. “We have lost beloved members of our department. The weight of shock and disbelief still lingers in my heart as we remember and honor the extraordinary lives of firefighter and EMT Derico Davis and firefighter and paramedic Jarod Squire.”

Stamps said both men were pleasures to work with and were each dedicated to serving the community.

“These exceptional young men from the Vicksburg Fire Department were skilled professionals and compassionate individuals who touched the hearts of many in our community. Their absence is profoundly felt, resonating within us even a year after their passing. I will always cherish the memories of their unwavering attention to detail and the passion they brought to their work, exemplifying a level of dedication and integrity that made anyone proud to be associated with them.”

Squire joined VFD in 2020 and, at the time of his death, had recently finished paramedic school. Davis joined VFD in 2022 and had recently passed his EMT exam.

Stamps said the loss of two lives and the potential for almost limitless good they represented is tragic, but added everyone Squire and Davis came in contact with were better off for having known the pair.

“Their legacy continues to shine in the lives they saved and the countless smiles they inspired,” Stamps said.