Weymouth 2 Alarm Fire 1/5/2012

Weymouth firefighters battled a tough 2 alarm fire on Thursday afternoon. A second alarm was struck for heavy fire coming from the rear corner of the home, as well as a deck that lead out to an above ground pool. To make matters worse, a gas service on the outside of the house melted, feeding natural gas to the fire. Crews had to pull back and wait for National Grid to arrive and shut the gas service to the house down. Family members were home at the time of the fire, but were able to escape without injury.

The Year in Review 2011

2011 was a big year for me and my photography. I made a lot of accomplishments and met some great people along the way. There were good times, but there were some very tough times, as well. From the Bruins bringing home the Stanley Cup, to saying goodbye to multiple members of the Fire Service.

Over the past year, I have gained valuable knowledge and experience in the world of photography. I have worked tirelessly at my craft to provide the best quality breaking news images I could. I became a good standing member of the National Press Photographer's Association, as well as being invited to join the International Fire Photographers Association. Both of which I am honored to call myself a member of. I have made some great contacts in both the News and Fire Service community.

As 2012 begins tomorrow, things will only be getting better. I strive to improve every time I strap the camera on and race out to a scene. Aside from capturing breaking news, I have also had the pleasure of capturing some of life's most cherished moments. From the birth of a newborn, to the joining of two best friends in marriage.

Below you will find some of my favorite and most popular news images of 2011.

2011 also brought devastation to the western part of Massachusetts as a strong tornado tore through multiple communities from Springfield to Worcester on June 1. I had the rare opportunity to document tornado damage for the first time without having to leave Massachusetts. The images I captured on June 2nd will forever be ingrained in my mind. 

And finally, we said goodbye to heroes who gave their life protecting the people and property of their respected communities across the state, including those who were long retired from the job. Please take a moment to remember those who dedicated their life to Public Safety

Braintree Fire Department Chief(Ret) Kenneth McHugh

Worcester Fire Department - Firefighter Jon Davies - Res1cue

Peabody Fire Department - Firefighter James Rice - Engine Co 5

I would like to wish all of my family, friends, and colleagues a safe and happy New Year. May 2012 bring health, happiness, and safety to all of you. I look forward to continuing to capture breaking news stories as well as life's everyday moments.

Thank you for the continued support over the past year.

Kevin Wiles, Jr - WMSFirePhoto1

Peabody Firefighter James Rice Funeral

    Two days prior to Christmas, Peabody Firefighter James Rice of Engine Company 5 made the ultimate sacrifice while battling a 2 alarm fire. Firefighter Rice gave his life doing what he loved to do. On Friday December 30, 2011, thousands of firefighters from across the region arrived in Peabody to offer their support and show their respect to the fallen Hero.
    As thousands of firefighters lined the streets of downtown Peabody, just as many residents showed up to pay their respects. Little kids stood at attention next the firefighters, offering a salute when the engine carrying Firefighter Rice's casket passed by. In a moving gesture, the family priest offered a special word to Firefighter Rice's three young children. "You're father was a teddy bear". He gave each of the three children a specially made Firefighter Teddy Bear from Build-A-Bear as a way to remember their father.

Rest In Peace

Firefighter James Rice

Peabody Engine Company 5