Firefighter fatally shot, 2nd wounded in Maryland

TEMPLE HILLS, Md. — A Prince George's County firefighter was shot and killed and another firefighter was wounded while answering a call Friday night in suburban Maryland, authorities say.

Officials identified the slain firefighter as John Holmschneider, a 13-year veteran of the department. He leaves behind a wife and a child.

The other firefighter was undergoing surgery at Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where he was listed in critical condition, police and fire officials say.  He has been identified as Kevin Swain. Police say he is a volunteer firefighter from Morningside, Md.

One suspect is in custody in connection with the shooting, which also left a civilian with minor gunshot wounds to the shoulder, according to police and fire officials.

Prince George’s County Fire/EMS spokesman Mark Brady says the firefighters were responding to a welfare call at a single-family home in Temple Hills when they were shot Friday night.

Police say a concerned neighbor called fire officials to check on the suspect who was having medical issues. When the suspect did not respond, the civilian and firefighters tried to enter the home, then the individual began firing rounds.

Brady said a police investigation is underway.

Police and fire agencies from other jurisdictions have tweeted out messages of support for the firefighters.

Contributing: The Associated Press