Beloved fire captain dies in Mother's Day car crash after his child's birth
A beloved Killeen, Texas, fire captain died in an off-duty car accident shortly after the birth of his fifth child over the weekend, according to officials.
The tragedy involving Captain Marvin Taylor III occurred on Mother's Day, May 11, after he left the hospital in Austin. According to a statement, Taylor was driving to pick up his other children when "his vehicle was struck from behind."
Austin police in the area assisted Taylor while waiting for first responders. However, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other driver was taken into custody. According to the statement from the city, the other vehicle was traveling "at a high rate of speed."
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Taylor described as an 'inspiration,' 'selfless'
Taylor was a "highly respected and decorated member" of the department, where he had worked since 2014, according to the city of Killeen.
"We are very fortunate to have known him for the 10 years he was with the Killeen Fire Department and part of our family," Chief James Kubinski said in a video to the community.
A fundraiser created for his family raised more than $60,000 as of Tuesday morning. Its goal is set at $75,000.
"Marvin has been an inspiration to us all, and we are grateful for his selfless service to our community," the caption stated. "He has always been there for others, putting their needs before his own. Now, we want to be there for him and his family."
Taylor's body was returned home
KWTX reported on May 12 that Taylor's body was escorted from Austin, where the incident happened, back to Killeen.
Killeen is about 70 miles from Austin.
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.
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