PORTLAND — Fire Department Capt. Michael Kucsma, 43, was remembered Tuesday for his sense of duty and passion for his work, less than a day after he died while scuba diving near Back Cove.
A visibly shaken Fire Chief Jerome LaMoria, speaking at a press conference at the memorial to fallen firefighters outside department headquarters at 380 Congress St., said Kucsma was diving with a group of six friends Monday at 3:45 p.m. near Tukey’s Bridge when he did not surface.
“I know not hearing his voice on the radio will be tough,” Lt. John Brooks said about the death of the 21-year veteran of the Fire Department. Brooks and Kucsma worked the same shift at the city’s Bramhall Station at 784 Congress St.
Kucsma had been pulled out of the water, to a dock at Maine Yacht Services on Kensington Street, when Fire Department emergency personnel arrived. Brooks said his colleague was declared dead at the scene.
“Rescues of this nature are never easy,” LaMoria said. “But when it’s a co-worker it is that much harder on everyone involved.”
The Police Department is investigating Kucsma’s death, and Police Chief Michael Sauschuck said Tuesday it does not appear suspicious. Police are waiting for state medical examiner to determine Kucsma’s cause of death, which may happen this week.
Kucsma, a married Buxton resident, was described as an avid diver by Brooks. The men also served together on the department Air Rescue Team stationed at 1005 Westbrook St. He was promoted to captain in 2006 and also served as a volunteer at the Gorham Fire Department.
Brooks, who is also president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 740, said Kucsma was dependable and dedicated.
“He always did things in a safe way. He was passionate about everything he did,” Brooks said. “These are going to be some tough shoes to fill.”
Sauschuck said the investigation has included checking the equipment used by Kucsma, but he did not provide details about how long the group may have been in the water or whether Kucsma may have had any medical problems.
Brooks said Kucsma’s family requested privacy while funeral arrangements are made.
LaMoria said there will be a department service for Kucsma, and Brooks suggested the Gorham Fire Department will be part of it.
“He knew his job and he came to work everyday and made a difference,” Brooks summarized. “He was someone you went to for answers.”
David Harry can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or dharry@theforecaster.net. Follow him on Twitter: @DavidHarry8.
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