Our condolences to the Torkos family and the the City of Detroit Fire Department of Michigan. Fire Engineer Operator Joseph Torkos, 47, an 11 year veteran of the Detroit Fire Department, died Wednesday February 7, 2007. Joseph was driving Engine 17 while responding with lights and sirens to a structure fire when the apparatus was hit by a Chevy Tahoe traveling at a high rate of speed through an intersection. Joseph and the officer, Lieutenant Walt Grysko were ejected from the apparatus. Joseph died shortly after at the scene while Grysko was hospitalized and 2 other firefighters were treated and released from injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the other vehicle was killed in the crash.

     Our brother Jospeh leaves behind his wife Andrea, his 2 year old daughter Monika, and his unborn daughter expected in June. A visitation will be held for Joseph on Saturday February 10, 2007 2-9PM and Sunday February 11, 2007 12-9PM at Solosy Funeral Home in Lincoln Park. A viewing will be held for Joseph on Monday February 12, 2007 10-11AM with an 11AM mass at St. Hedwig Catholic Church, south of Michigan Avenue, followed by an interment at Our Lady Hope Cemetery in Brownstown Township. Memorial information will be posted when it is released.