Memorial service held for HFD Arson Investigator Lemuel Bruce
HFD Arson Investigator Lemuel Bruce was killed in the line of duty on October 16, 2020. (Courtesy: The Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association)
HOUSTON - A memorial service was held Thursday for Houston Fire Department arson investigator Lemuel ‘DJ’ Bruce, who was killed in the line of duty.
Hundreds of people spread out to fill Lakewood Church near COVID-19 capacity limits.
“For the 6th time in 14 months, we’re here to honor a fallen brother,” said HFD firefighter Marty Lancton.
Several firefighters spoke at the memorial service in Bruce’s honor. The father of two joined HFD in 2003.
“Bruce developed into a fantastic investigator,” said HFD Senior Investigator Chris Simonton. “The type that I would want to have working a case if it was my home or my car that was burned.”
“Our fire family is hurting,” said HFD Senior Captain Bobby Delgado. “Our police family is hurting. Our city right now is hurting.”
Bruce spent the last five years with HFD as an arson investigator. Last week, Bruce was senselessly shot and killed last by a man believed to be connected to recent fires in Northwest Houston. Ultimately, the suspect turned the gun on himself and also died.
“[Bruce] was murdered in cold blood,” said Delgado. “It was tragic. It is heart-wrenching. We are reminded day in and day out that evil does exist.”
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According to HFD Chief Samuel Pena, becoming an arson investigator is an impressive promotion for Houston firefighters. The position combines firefighter and police skills.
“He was a talented over-achiever,” said Chief Pena. “He was a Marine. He was a crew chief. He was a firefighter. He was an EMT.”
Firefighters saluted their fallen friend Thursday who sacrificed his life during an investigation.
“I hope there is some comfort in knowing that all of us are here with you,” said Chief Pena. “To support you and your family. To lift you up as we honor his life and his memory.”
Investigator Bruce was shot Friday morning in Houston’s Timbergrove neighborhood while conducting surveillance in an arson investigation.
He began his career with the Houston Fire Department in 2003 and was an investigator for five years. He previously served out of HFD Fire Stations 77, 96, 46, 42, 64, 6 and 12.
Investigator Bruce is survived by his wife, his 12-year-old daughter and his 8-year-old son.