Lexington blood drive to honor firefighter killed in the line of duty

LEXINGTON, S.C. — The Lexington County Fire Service is hosting a blood drive in honor of fallen Fire Engineer Paul Quattlebaum.

Quattlebaum died last October after 22 years with the agency when he was struck by a semi while trying to help victims of a car crash.

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Lexington Fire Chief Mark Davis describes Quattlebaum as a hard worker and a friend.

"Paul was larger than life, literally. He was a large personality. He loved his job. He loved his community," Davis said. "Not only did he serve Lexington County in the fire service, but he served the United States Marine Core in protecting his country."

Now, the chief is asking others to give the "gift of life" in Quattlebaum's memory.

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"Going through the holiday's there's been a lot of accidents and blood stocks are low, so as a memorial to Paul and the legacy that he lived in supporting his community, we're asking that the community, especially any first responders, our response partners, to come out and honor Paul by donating blood which is truly the gift of life."

The blood drive will be held February 10 at 8:00 AM at the Ball Park Gym in Lexington located at 432 Ball Park Road.