UPDATED: Alexandria Paramedic from Bristow Dies from Injuries

Joshua Weissman, 33, of the Kingsbrooke community, died at 4:25 p.m. on Friday from injuries sustained while responding to the scene of a vehicle fire on northbound lanes of I-395 near South Glebe Road yesterday evening.

On his way to assist the motorist, Wiessman sustained a severe head injury when he fell off the roadway and into Four Mile Run Creek, which is approximately 20-30 feet below the interstate.

Weissman was climbing over the cement barrier to get to the vehicle when he fell through a gap between the two barriers and into the creek.

Fire department officials said the Alexandria Fire Department responded to a call at 6:21 p.m, rescuing Weissman from the creek with assistance from firefighters from neighboring Arlington County. He was then transported to MedStar Washington Hospital Center with life-threatening injuries.

Despite the efforts of hospital staff, Weissman succumbed to his injuries. He died surrounded by his family; he is survived by his wife Rebecca.

"The Department has not only lost an outstanding employee and Paramedic, but a dedicated co-worker and friend," Alexandria Fire Chief Adam K. Thiel said in a statement. "This is a day of great sadness for all in the Alexandria Fire Department and for the City of Alexandria."

Weissman was a seven-year veteran with the Alexandria Paramedics. In a statement, the Alexandria Fire Department summarized Weissman's accomplishments:

• Weissman was hired as a Medic I for the Alexandria Fire Department in April 2006 and was promoted to Medic II the following year. His most recent assignment was to the D Shift at Fire Station 206.
• He had a history of outstanding performance ratings and was an enthusiastic and engaging instructor.
• He actively participated in a number of committees, which focused on improving EMS quality management and training.
• He helped establish a Field Training Program for EMS Interns, served as a Field Training Officer, and received the Alexandria Jaycees “Outstanding Public Service Award” in 2011 for his contributions to the Field Training Program for EMS Interns.
• He was a recipient of an Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Valor Award.
• He was also certified as an Acting EMS Supervisor (Medic III).

According to Alexandria Fire Department officials, the Weissman family requests condolences and donations be sent to:

Joshua A. Weissman Memorial Fund

c/o Alexandria Firefighters, Inc - IAFF Local 2141

4600 Duke Street, Suite 429

Alexandria, VA 22304