The Branford Fire Department is mourning the loss of the deputy fire chief, who was struck and killed by a train in Branford last Wednesday night.
Deputy Chief Ronald R. Mullen, who was also the deputy fire marshal, was on the tracks in the area of Pleasant Point Road in Branford around 7:20 p.m. on Wednesday when a Shoreline East train struck him, officials said.
"It is with deep regret, we relay news of the sudden passing of Deputy Chief/Deputy Fire Marshal Ronald R. Mullen. Deputy Chief Mullen joined the Branford Fire Department as a cadet member in 1976 and became a member of the career staff in 1981. Over his nearly four decade career, he was one of the most respected Incident Commanders, fire investigators, and educators in the state," a Facebook post on the Branford Fire Department page says.
The officer of the medical examiner said on Monday that Mullen's death was a suicide.
Last week, police issued a statement, saying the public safety community is grieving the loss of Deputy Chief Mullen.
"He was well respected not only in our community, but throughout our state and nation. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and his brothers and sisters in the firefighting community," a statement from Captain Geoffrey Morgan says.
He added that police have assisted Amtrak Police in their investigation.
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A mass for Mullen is scheduled for 11 a.m. at St. Mary Church in Branford. There will be no calling hours.
