MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) -- Fire officials in Montgomery County have identified the firefighter who died after they responded to a fire at a home in Laurel on Saturday. In a press conference Sunday afternoon, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) Fire Chief Corey Smedley identified the firefighter as 46-year-old Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins. According to Pete Piringer of the MCFRS, at around 5 p.m. on Jan. 11, crews responded to the 15000 block of Bradford Drive to assist the Prince George’s County Fire Department after a fire broke out at a home. Smedley said that Higgins was the driver of the first ladder truck that arrived at the scene, and during emergency operations outside the home, "what apparently took place was some kind of medical emergency." Responders quickly administered CPR on Higgins and transported him to the Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring, where he died. Higgins was a 23-year department veteran, according to Smedley. Although he did not know Higgins well, Smedley pointed to his life of service when describing the type of person he was known to be. "Chris, as I understand, was a pretty quiet guy, but he was a serious guy about his work. Not only was he a mentor here in the department, it was in his blood to serve his community," he said. Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service (MCFRS) Fire Chief Corey Smedley addresses reporters on Sunday, Jan. 12, following the death of a firefighter. Smedley noted that Higgins was part of the Anne Arundel volunteer system and is a life member. He also highlighted how loved he was by many, calling him a "family man." "He loved his wife and his two kids, and he loved his work family as well," he expressed. "He was just an overall good person, and he is going to be surely missed." In such situations, fire officials said a "family liaison" is appointed to assist the family directly and meet their needs. "We have been with the family since this has occurred, and we will continue to be around them and support them," said Smedley. PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Montgomery County firefighter dies after responding to fire at home in Laurel, fire officials say When asked if Higgins had any known underlying medical conditions that could have contributed to his death, Smedley asserted that at this point in the investigation, it would be premature to say. In the wake of the incident, Smedley expressed gratitude for the support the department has received from the county, the community and its regional partners, noting that upon learning of Higgins' death, some MCFRS spouses came together and prepared food for personnel at the station. "What you will learn about the fire service is we are a big family, and those family members continue to take care of each other," he said. Smedley also addressed the public, emphasizing that they can rely on the MCFRS to continue serving the community. "I don't want you to be alarmed if you need us; you can count on us. As a matter of fact, we have responded to you over 200 times today already, and we will continue to respond," he said. After officials identified the firefighter as Higgins, Gov. Wes Moore released the following statement: Our hearts are heavy at the loss of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Master Firefighter Christopher Higgins, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community. MFF Higgins honorably served the community for 23 years, and will be remembered as a loving husband and father, skilled firefighter, great mentor, and a deeply loved friend. The First Lady and I extend our prayers to his family, colleagues, and all who loved him." Gov. Wes Moore The investigation is ongoing, as the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. From there, Higgins' family will determine where they want him to be taken so that he can be appropriately memorialized.