A bouquet of flowers and skid marks identify the spot on Meadowbrook Way in Snoqualmie where Renton firefighter, Joshua Baker, tragically lost his life in the early hours of Sunday, November 14th. He is survived by his wife, 3 year old son and 11 month old daughter.
Baker was traveling north on Meadowbrook Way between North Bend Way and Railroad Ave – near Mt Si High School – when he lost control of his truck. The truck spun, crossed the center lane and slid over an embankment – crashing into a tree. This stretch of Meadowbrook Way is winding with little shoulder and few guard rails – as well as dark, surrounded by tall trees on both sides. Police say speed may have been a factor in the accident, but the exact cause has not been determined. According to Washington State Patrol, Baker was not wearing a seat belt.
The City of Renton is mourning the loss of the 33 yr old firefighter. Baker joined Fire District 40 in 2007 and then the Renton Fire Department in 2008. “On behalf of the City of Renton and the Fire and Emergency Services, we extend our deepest and sincere sympathies to Joshua Baker’s family and friends,” said Fire Chief/Emergency Services Administrator, Mark Peterson.
A Memorial Service for Joshua Baker happens this Saturday, November 20th, at Snoqualmie Valley Alliance Church at 11AM. SVA is located at 36017 S.E. Fish Hatchery Road, Fall City, WA. Donations can also be made at any US Bank branch in memory of Joshua Baker.
