Chesterfield County firefighter Sammy Ershidat passes after tragic motorcycle crash
Location & Individual’s Name:
In Chesterfield County, Virginia, 23-year-old firefighter Sammy Ershidat passed away following a motorcycle crash on West Hundred Road near the Grand Oaks Apartments.
Victim Details & Career:
Sammy Ershidat was a career firefighter with the Chesterfield County Fire & EMS, having graduated from Recruit School 68 in 2024. He was assigned to Engine 211, “C” Shift at Fire Station 11 on Iron Bridge Road. ( He was known for his dedication, professionalism, and enthusiastic service to the residents of Chesterfield County. According to a statement by Fire Chief Edward L. Senter, Jr., Ershidat proudly served the community and his loss deeply saddens the entire department.
Circumstances of the Incident:
On Friday afternoon, November 7, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Ershidat was riding his motorcycle eastbound on West Hundred Road in the 4900-block when he collided with a vehicle exiting the Grand Oaks Apartments. The crash occurred when the vehicle pulled out and the motorcycle entered the intersection. () Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported Ershidat to a hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries and passed away shortly thereafter. The driver of the vehicle was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. (Impact & Reaction:
The passing of Sammy Ershidat has resonated deeply among his fire-department colleagues, the residents he served, friends, and family. The Chesterfield County Fire & EMS department released a heartfelt statement expressing the profound loss felt at Station 11 and across the county. Chief Senter urged the community to lift up Ershidat’s family and co-workers in prayer during this difficult time. )
Given the nature of his service and how young he was at the time of his passing, the incident underscores the risks first responders face even outside of active duty assignments. He was off-duty at the time of the crash, yet still in his gear as a firefighter who had just begun his professional journey serving others. His career was brief, but marked by bravery and genuine commitment.
Broader Context:
Motorcycle crashes remain one of the most dangerous roadway incidents, especially when they involve intersections or vehicles pulling out unexpectedly. The collision at West Hundred Road is under investigation by the Chesterfield County Police Department, which is asking any witnesses or individuals with information to contact them at 804-748-1251, or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660. ()
For the Fire & EMS department, which often deals with the consequences of traffic collisions, the passing of one of their own highlights the personal cost of public service—and the fragility of life, even for those dedicated to saving it.
Memorial & Remembrance:
While official funeral or memorial service details have not been disclosed publicly in full at this time, the department has indicated that they will honor Ershidat’s memory formally. His family, station-mates, and the community will likely gather to recognize his life of service, his positive impact, and the legacy he leaves despite a short tenure.
Many who knew him have described him as warm, energetic, and devoted—qualities that endeared him to colleagues and community alike. His passing is tragic not just because of the sudden nature of the crash, but because it cut short a promising career in service of others.
Summary:
In Chesterfield County, Virginia, 23-year-old firefighter Sammy Ershidat passed away after a motorcycle crash on November 7, 2025. A member of Chesterfield County Fire & EMS at Station 11, he was riding east on West Hundred Road when his motorcycle collided with a vehicle exiting the Grand Oaks Apartments. He was transported to the hospital, where he died of his injuries. The driver survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Ershidat was known for his dedication and warmth, and his short but impactful career is mourned by his department, family, and the community he served.