SEQUIM – Sad news from our firefighters at Clallam 3 Fire-Rescue. The following is a news release issued Thursday afternoon.

“It is with deep sadness, that Clallam County Fire District 3 must inform the local and fire service community of the Line of Duty Death of one of our officers this morning, Captain Charles “Chad” Cate.

 Captain Cate was discovered deceased in his bunk by members of his crew when they attempted to wake him this morning around 7 a.m. He was last seen following a response to a fire activation at a commercial building about 0225 this morning, where he returned to the station; crews went to bed following the call.

 The 46 year-old was raised in the area and graduated from Sequim High School where he has continued to be involved as the Wrestling Coach. He was hired by the District in 1997 as a firefighter/paramedic and promoted to the rank of captain in 2020. Captain Cate leaves behind his wife, 2 year-old son and two adult children.

 The District and its members are doing everything possible to support our fallen brother’s family, and we ask the community to join us as we keep them in our thoughts and prayers.

 More information will be provided as it is available.

Ben Andrews, Fire Chief

Clallam County Fire District #3”