The Winona Fire Department has been called on to assist another East Texas Fire Department in the midst of tragedy.

The death of Jalen Smith, a Jackson Heights Fire Fighter, has taken a toll on the Department and fire fighters have temporarily taken off to deal with their loss.

Smith was died this week after being on life support for several days. Smith and two other Jackson Heights Fire fighters’ were involved in a car accident Sunday that ultimately took the young man’s life. The men were driving to assist with another accident when the crash occurred.

The Winona Fire Department has taken over for all calls in the northern sections of Jackson Heights responding territory.

“Two other Departments are assisting as well,” said Winona Fire Secretary Shelly Brumley. “We’re taking all fire calls as long as they need us to.”

Chapel Hill and Arp Fire Departments are assisting with other regions.