By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- Richlands, Va. — Firefighter/EMT Linzie “Scottie” Collins died hours after completing an on-duty shift during which he responded to two calls, officials said. FireRescue1
- Timeline: Worked 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Nov. 15; found in medical distress at ~1:15 a.m., Nov. 16; pronounced at 3:24 a.m. after transport. FireRescue1
- Service & support: Remembered for three decades of fire/EMS service to Richlands; a GoFundMe was established for his family. FireRescue1
RICHLANDS, Va. — The Richlands fire and EMS community is mourning Linzie Scott “Scottie” Collins, a veteran firefighter/EMT who died just hours after finishing an on-duty tour, according to reports compiled from USFA and local media. Officials said Collins worked a 10 a.m.–6 p.m. shift on Nov. 15, 2025, answering two calls. Shortly after 1:15 a.m. on Nov. 16, he suffered a medical emergency at home; family initiated CPR, and he was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced at 3:24 a.m. FireRescue1
Known across Tazewell County as “Scottie,” Collins devoted more than three decades to serving neighbors through fire and EMS responses. Colleagues and residents remembered his steady professionalism and the mentoring he provided to newer members. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support his family. FireRescue1
Line-of-duty status: The United States Fire Administration has listed Collins’ death following his on-duty shift and subsequent medical emergency; local officials will coordinate with state and federal partners on formal determinations and benefits. Funeral and procession details will be released by the department when available. FireRescue1