Courtesy Photo/Brooke Hairl
During the March 24 Gun Barrel City Council meeting, Fire Chief Colby McBride (center) recognized first responders who were called out Dec. 28,2025 concerning a teen in a kayak that had capsized on the lake during a storm. The team quickly went into action, locating the unharmed teen on Bird Island south of the Seven Points bridge. Fire Captain Jace Garza (from left), firefighter Zack Kennedy, firefighter Jefferson Strauch, Texas Game Warden Chad West, McBride, Gun Barrel City Mayor Brian Crull, Assistant Fire Chief Jason Rainey, Lt. Michael Bradley, Lt. Matt Newkirk, firefighter Casey Kundiff, Police Officer Chloe Danmyer and Johnny Martinez (not pictured) proudly stand together. Colby said, “The incident highlights exceptional coordination, skills and dedication of all the respondent agencies. Their unified efforts to use the specialized equipment resulting in a positive outcome exemplifying the highest standards of public safety.”

Courtesy Photo/Brooke Hairl
Fire Chief Colby McBride recognized first responders who rescued some duck hunters from heavy waves on the lake Jan. 10. After heavy waves started overtaking the hunters' boat, they were able to call for help. The coordination between law enforcement and fire personnel was immediately initiated with the rescue boat deployed. Despite the hazardous conditions, the crew continued their search, ultimately locating the victims clinging to a tree out in the middle of the lake. This rescue exemplifies the teamwork, perseverance and dedication to public safety under dangerous and challenging conditions.” Jefferson Strauch (from left), Assistant Fire Chief Jason Rainey, Fire Chief Colby McBride, firefighter Zach Kennedy, Lt. Michael Bradley, firefighter Casey Kundiff, Captain Jordan West and Mayor Brian Crull receive a warm congratulations from the audience.