A Day We Will Never Forget: Community Remembers Lt. Philip M. Wigal Four Years Later
WAYNE COUNTY — Four years later, the pain remains, but so does the memory of a man who gave everything in service to others.
On April 11, 2022, tragedy struck along Interstate 71 in Wayne County when Town & Country Fire District Lieutenant Philip M. Wigal lost his life in the line of duty an event that forever changed a community, a department, and a family.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Lt. Wigal, 35, was assisting at the scene of a minor crash on I-71 southbound near State Route 301 when a commercial vehicle struck the fire engine, a OHP patrol cruiser, and the original crash vehicle. Lt. Wigal and Trooper Steven B. Hill were both hit during the incident. Trooper Hill survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Lt. Wigal was pronounced dead at the scene.
What began as a routine response turned into a devastating reminder of the dangers first responders face every day.
Lt. Wigal wasn’t just a firefighter he was a husband, father, son, and a pillar of his community.
Born February 26, 1987, he dedicated 16 years to the Town & Country Fire District, beginning as a part-time firefighter in 2006 before rising through the ranks to Lieutenant. Along the way, he served as an EMS instructor, inspector, and president of the fire association, while also working with departments in Lodi and Canaan.
Those who knew him remember his infectious smile, his willingness to help anyone in need, and his deep love for his family especially his wife Lindsey and his two daughters, who were “his world.”
In the wake of his death, Ohio lawmakers took action.
House Bill 132, known as “Philip Wigal’s Law,” was introduced by State Representatives Melanie Miller and Meredith Craig to strengthen Ohio’s Move Over Law. The legislation increases penalties for drivers who fail to slow down or move over for emergency vehicles violations that can now carry fines up to $10,000 and criminal charges if a death occurs.
“By simply slowing down and moving over, we can prevent tragedy and honor the men and women who keep Ohio safe,” Miller said when the bill passed the Ohio House unanimously.
Lt. Wigal’s story became the driving force behind the legislation, ensuring his sacrifice would not be in vain.
Following his death, Governor Mike DeWine ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across Wayne County and at state buildings in Columbus in honor of Lt. Wigal, a tribute reserved for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Hundreds gathered for his funeral services at the Wooster Church of the Nazarene, with a full firefighter procession escorting him to his final resting place in West Salem.
“Last Alarm” A Brotherhood Remembers
Among firefighters, the phrase “Last Alarm” carries deep meaning, a final call answered by a brother who will never return.
Lt. Wigal’s passing left a void not only in his department but across the entire fire service community. His legacy lives on in every call answered, every life saved, and every firefighter who continues the job he loved.
Today, April 11, is more than just a date, it’s a reminder.
A reminder of sacrifice.
A reminder of service.
A reminder of a life taken too soon.
Four years later, the community still mourns, still honors, and still remembers Lt. Philip M. Wigal not just for how he died, but for how he lived.
A hero.
A brother.
A man who answered one last call.
Rest in peace, Lt. Wigal. Your watch may have ended, but your legacy continues
