Posted on 05/14/25
| News Source: WBAL TV
Baltimore, MD - May 14, 2025 — The Baltimore City Fire Department is mourning one of its own who suffered a medical emergency in the line of duty.
Lt. Mark Dranbauer Jr. was critically injured Monday afternoon after suffering a medical emergency while perched on an aerial ladder, according to Baltimore City Fire Department Chief James Wallace. Dranbauer fell down the ladder and was rescued and taken to Shock Trauma.
In a statement posted Wednesday night on X, the family said:
"On Monday May 12, 2025, 44-year-old Lt. Mark Dranbauer Jr., a 23-year veteran of the Baltimore City Fire Department, suffered a medical emergency while serving the people of Baltimore City.
"It is with great sadness that we were made aware that the injuries suffered are too catastrophic to sustain life. As such, Lt. Dranbauer has elected to continue to save lives.
"He is currently on life support, allowing time for his organs to be carefully prepared for donation, in accordance with his selfless wishes. Even after death, Lt. Dranbauer continues to think of others as his tissues and organs will be donated and will save an estimated 70 lives.
"Mark is survived by his son, James, his parents Mark and Robin Dranbauer, his sister Kate Smith, and his nephew Gabriel Smith and niece Raelynn Smith.
"Mark was beyond loved and is also survived by countless cousins, relatives, and, of course, his brothers and sisters of the Baltimore City Fire Department.
"Funeral service information will be provided as it becomes available. The Dranbauer family is eternally grateful for all prayers and offers of support during this immensely difficult time."