The body of Tony Bortner, a 51-year-old fire police captain hailing from Laurel Fire Company No. 1 in Windsor, York County, Pennsylvania, was found in the Susquehanna River on November 1, 2024, bringing a two-week search to a close. The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office confirmed the detection of Bortner’s body in the shallow waters near Peavine Island in Martic Township around 2:54 p.m.
Bortner had been missing since October 17, with his car discovered two days later at the historic Lock 12 region in Lower Chanceford Township, York County. According to authorities, family members stated Bortner often visited this place whenever he needed to clear his mind.
The search teams had persistently scoured a four-square-mile zone since Bortner’s disappearance until they found his body. The Lancaster County Coroner declared Bortner dead at the site, following which his body was sent to the Lancaster County Forensic Center for further examination.
On Monday, November 4, the coroner’s updated report clarified that Bortner’s cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head, ruling it a suicide.
Bortner, who joined the fire department in 2006, dedicated nearly 18 years of his life to the organization, serving in various roles. He started his service as a fire police officer, was later promoted to lieutenant, and ultimately ascended to the position of fire police captain.
Bortner was recognized for his commitment to the fire company’s operations throughout his tenure. The fire company, in their announcement, stated, “He was always ready to lend a hand at fundraising events, station tasks, and any other requirements of the company.”
Brenda Bortner, Tony’s wife, shared her grief on her Facebook page, expressing her love for her husband and referring to him as her “forever hero.” “He loved us very much,” she tearfully said. “He did everything to protect us and serve us and the community. He would help anyone. All you needed to do was ask him, and he was there,” she recalled. “That’s how everybody remembers him; that’s how I remember him.”
The Laurel Fire Company announced the tragic news of his passing on Facebook, expressing the profound sorrow felt by all members. They described Bortner as not only a colleague but a friend whose absence would leave a void at the firehouse difficult to fill. Bortner had been part of their team since November 2006, beginning as a Fire Police Officer, advancing to Lieutenant, and ultimately becoming a Fire Police Captain.
