Irmo mayor, others react to Irmo firefighter’s death. ‘Our hearts are breaking.’

Irmo Mayor Barry Walker and neighboring fire departments, law enforcement agencies and others across the Midlands and South Carolina expressed sympathy and support for the family, friends and colleagues of Irmo firefighter James Michael Muller, who was killed Friday while fighting an apartment fire in Columbia.

“Firefighter J. Michael Muller exemplified the spirit of selflessness and bravery that defines our firefighting community. He fearlessly put himself in harm’s way to protect the lives and property of others, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his duty as a firefighter,” Walker said in a statement. “We are forever indebted to him for his service and sacrifice.”

Walker said he ordered flags at all Irmo facilities to be lowered to half-mast to honor Muller, and a memorial service is being planned.

“His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his service will be remembered as an inspiration to us all,” Walker said in a statement. “May his soul find eternal peace.”

The Columbia-Richland Fire Department was also among those that shared condolences.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to our partners at Irmo Fire District and our many dedicated firefigthers following this tragic day,” the department wrote on Twitter.

The University of South Carolina Police Department called the tragedy “a great loss for the entire community. Our hearts are breaking for @IrmoFire during this tragic time. Firefighter James Michael Muller’s ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Here are other comments posted to Twitter about Muller’s passing.