Houston FD Captain Bill Dowling dies almost 4 years after deadly motel fire
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Houston Fire Department Capt. Bill Dowling died in Colorado Tuesday, according to the department.
Both of Dowling’s legs were amputated after he was injured in the Southwest Inn fire in 2013.
Dowling was injured on May 31, 2013 — which is considered the deadliest day in Houston Fire Department history.
Believing people were trapped in a fire that engulfed the Southwest Inn along the Southwest Freeway, Dowling led a rescue attempt during which four fellow firefighters died and 13 others were injured.
“He’s struggling really hard and needs a major intervention. He is very anxious and has not rested well, going on 4 days,” his family posted on Facebook early Tuesday. “Please go to God and ask for immediate healing and peace.”
The man known as “Iron Bill” and his wife Jacki moved to Durango, Colo. last year to continue his recovery.
The Houston Fire Department released a statement regarding Dowling’s death:
“The men and women of the Houston Fire Department mourn the loss Captain William ‘Iron Bill’ Dowling. Captain William Dowling has died on Today, March 7, 2017. Captain Dowling entered the Houston Fire Department 17 years ago, on March 21, 2000. He retired on June 1, 2013 after suffering career ending and life altering injuries in the Southwest Inn fire on May 31, 2013, that killed four other Houston firefighters. The Southwest Inn fire is considered the deadliest day in Houston Fire Department history. Captain Dowling passed away today due to complications of the injuries. The incredible strength and bravery he showed as he and his family rebuilt his life – and theirs – after his injuries inspired us all. Please keep the Dowling family and all of the men and women of our fire department in your prayers.”
