On November 1, 2024, the body of 51-year-old Tony Bortner, Fire Police Captain of Laurel Fire Company No. 1 in Windsor, York County, Pennsylvania, was found in the Susquehanna River. This discovery marked the end of a two-week search. The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Bortner’s body was found in shallow water near Peavine Island, located in Martic Township, at approximately 2:54 p.m.
Bortner had vanished on October 17, and his vehicle was found two days later at the historic Lock 12 area in Lower Chanceford Township, York County. According to authorities, family members indicated that Bortner frequently visited this location when he needed some solitude.
Before Bortner’s body was discovered, search teams had painstakingly searched a four-square-mile area since his disappearance. The Lancaster County Coroner declared Bortner dead at the scene. His body was later transferred to the Lancaster County Forensic Center for further examination.
An updated report from the coroner’s office, released on Monday, November 4, revealed that Bortner died from a gunshot wound to the head. The cause of death was officially ruled as suicide.
Bortner had served the department since 2006, dedicating nearly 18 years to the organization and holding various positions. He started as a fire police officer, was later promoted to lieutenant, and eventually assumed the position of fire police captain.
During his time with the department, Bortner was recognized for his commitment to the fire company’s operations. The fire company stated in their announcement that Bortner was continuously willing to assist with fundraising events, station duties, and other company needs.
Brenda Bortner, Tony’s wife, shared her feelings on her Facebook page, calling her husband her “forever hero” and expressing her love for him. “He loved us very much,” she said tearfully. “He did everything to protect us and serve us and the community. He would help anybody. All you had to do was ask him, and he was there,” she said. “That’s how everybody remembers him; that’s how I remember him.”
The news of Bortner’s passing was shared by the Laurel Fire Company on Facebook. They spoke of the profound sadness felt by all members, emphasizing that Bortner was not just a colleague but a friend. His absence at the firehouse would leave a void that would be difficult to fill. Tony had been a part of their team since November 2006, starting as a Fire Police Officer, progressing to Lieutenant, and finally serving as a Fire Police Captain.