Former Derby Fire Chief James J. Butler, 50, has died, according to an email sent out Sunday by Town/City Clerk Mark Garofalo. The email, which doesn’t mention the cause of Butler’s death, details his accomplishments, including being an inspector with the Derby Fire Marshal’s Office, and a member of the Paugassett Hook and Ladder company for more than 30 years.
Butler fell ill after responding to a call Sunday, according to a statement from Derby Assistant Fire Department Chief David Lenart. Firefighters were responding to a fire alarm at the Dew Drop Inn at the corner of Route 34 and North Avenue.
"Please keep Chief Butler and his family in your thoughts and prayers," Lenart said in the message.
Funeral information is not yet available.
The letter also mentions that Butler was the son of James R. Butler, a member and past Chair of the Derby Board of Apportionment and Taxation.