Tony Bortner, a 51-year-old fire police captain hailing from Laurel Fire Company No. 1 in Windsor, Pennsylvania, was found dead in the Susquehanna River on November 1, 2024. This discovery concluded a two-week-long search operation. The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Bortner’s body was found in shallow water near Peavine Island in Pennsylvania’s Martic Township area, around 2:54 p.m.
Since October 17, Bortner had been missing, with his vehicle discovered two days later near the historic Lock 12 area in Lower Chanceford Township, York County, Pennsylvania. According to law enforcement, family members stated that Bortner often visited this location to “clear his head”.
Following Bortner’s disappearance, search crews meticulously searched a four-square-mile area prior to discovering his body. The Lancaster County Coroner declared Bortner dead at the location, and his remains were transferred to the Lancaster County Forensic Center for further examination.
On Monday, November 4, the coroner’s office issued an updated report, stating that Bortner’s cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head, ruling the manner of death as suicide.
Bortner had been a part of the department since 2006, dedicating almost 18 years to the organization. He started his service as a fire police officer and was later promoted to lieutenant before ultimately becoming the fire police captain.
Bortner was recognized for his commitment to the operations of the fire company. According to the fire company’s statement, Bortner was always ready to assist with fundraising events, station chores, and any other needs of the company.
Brenda Bortner, Tony’s wife, shared on her Facebook page her affection for him, describing him as her “forever hero”. “He loved us very much,” Brenda stated, fighting back tears. “He did everything to protect us and serve us and the community. He would help anybody. All you had to do was ask him, and he was there,” she remembered.
The Laurel Fire Company announced the sorrowful news of Bortner’s passing on Facebook, describing the profound grief they all felt. They emphasized that he was not just a member of the company but a friend, and his absence at the firehouse would be deeply felt. Bortner had been with the company since November 2006, starting his journey as a Fire Police Officer and eventually becoming a Fire Police Captain.