by Robin Kemp
Clayton County Fire and Emergency Services is mourning the loss of Firefighter Jordan Markell Bolden of Riverdale, who was killed in a rollover crash in Newport News, Va. around 3:30 a.m. July 18.
An End of Service Ceremony will be livestreamed from Traveler’s Rest Baptist Church on Facebook Friday, July 24 at 4 p.m. due to COVID-19. The viewing takes place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the church, 2112 Rex Road, Morrow.
CCFES says that seating will be limited due to social distancing and masks are required. Should the church reach capacity, services also will be broadcast on a large screen outside. A spokesperson for the family said the event is for “immediate family, county officials and dignitaries.”
Chief Landry Merkison said Bolden had been a “bright, rising star” in the department.
Virginia State Police say Bolden died on impact after Denzel Antonio Carter, 22, apparently fell asleep at the wheel while driving westbound on I-64. The vehicle left the road, hit the guardrail, and flipped onto its roof. Carter and a female passenger were hospitalized. Police charged Carter with reckless driving, the Daily Press reported.
Bolden, a graduate of Charles Drew High School, was the son of Madriek and Danielle Bolden. He also was a car enthusiast. Dozens of friends and family held a car and motorcycle meet in the parking lot of Drew High School, where Bolden’s CCFES photo and a jersey printed with the number 6 and “JORDAN” decorated the hood of his red and black Dodge Charger. His car led friends in a final ride.
“The Bolden family thank you for your prayers,” CCFES said in a Facebook post.
A GoFundMe for Bolden’s family surpassed its $1,500 goal and was at $5,205 at press time.
Bolden will be interred in Walterboro, S.C. at a date to be announced.
