Nash County EMS director Dale Griffin dies after drowning on NC beach trip

NASHVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Nash County community is mourning after the loss of their Emergency Medical Services (EMS) director.

Dale Griffin drowned while on a beach trip in Carteret County on Saturday, according to the Nash County Sheriff's Office.

Griffin had been with Nash County EMS for 38 years.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Dale Griffin," County Manager Stacie Shatzer said in a statement Sunday. "Dale dedicated many years to serving the people of Nash County, and he was highly respected by his colleagues throughout the organization and our community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time."

Nash County EMS posted a tribute to Griffin on its Facebook page that said in part: "Today, Nash EMS has lost our Director, but so many of us have also lost a mentor and a dear friend. There are no words that can adequately describe the void his absence leaves within our department. We ask that you keep Dale's wife, Julie, his daughters, Harlee and Grace, his entire family, and his Nash EMS family in your thoughts and prayers in the difficult days ahead. Director Griffin, thank you for your service, your leadership, your friendship, and the legacy you leave behind. We will carry it forward. Rest easy, Dale. We'll take it from here."

On Saturday, the sheriff's office shared the news of Griffin's passing on Facebook.

"Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Dale Griffin, Nash County EMS Director," NCSO wrote. "We also keep his EMS family in our hearts as they grieve this tremendous loss."

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