INDIANAPOLIS – The Wayne Township Fire Department and firefighters throughout the state are mourning the death of Richard “Hank” Potter.
Potter, who passed away from cancer according to the Wayne Township Fire Department on Tuesday, had worked for the fire department since December 1999 as an engineer. Prior to his hiring, Potter was a volunteer firefighter with the department for 12 years.
Throughout his career, Potter was awarded the Medal of Bravery, the medal of Merit, the Community Service Award and seven-unit commendations.
According to the department, Potter always worked an off-duty job, whether at Rolls Royce as a Firefighter or leading the Knox Key control system for the department. Around the station, he was known as the guy who could drive anything.
Potter was a veteran who served in Afghanistan. He served in the Indiana National Guard for 25 years.
The Wayne Township Fire Department shared their condolences to Potter’s wife Gwyn and their three sons, Christopher, Caden and Reilley Potter.
A memorial fund has been established at the Indianapolis Firefighters Credit Union to assist the family in place of flowers.
Potter is considered a line of duty death and he will receive full department honors, according to the fire department.
-
Police arrest two teens accused of stealing a car then shooting a woman
Two teenagers are facing several charges after police say they are accused of stealing a woman’s Kia and then shooting her.Indy testing organizations see increase in STIs among teenagers
More teenagers in central Indiana are testing positive for sexually transmitted infections. WRTV checked in with local organizations, encouraging teens to get tested.Former Indianapolis Colts player takes students on field trip to trampoline park
Marlin Jackson took students who have good behavior in the classroom to Urban Air Trampoline Park in Noblesville.Indianapolis Zoo to welcome giant tortoises in 2025
The new exhibit, featuring Galapagos and Aldabra tortoises, will open on Memorial Day Weekend in 2025.