With the heaviest of hearts, Hampstead Volunteer Fire Company announces the unexpected passing of active member Joseph Sagal Joey, a Carroll County Resident, died Thursday morning.

Joey dedicated his life to helping his community and supporting those around him, responding to thousands of emergencies over the years with several Maryland fire agencies. Although Joey only started his membership this year, he was an up-and-coming active member. Recently, Joey was cleared as a Driver Operator / firefighter on all apparatus at HVFC.

He was also a firefighter with the Pikesville Volunteer Fire Company, serving for more than 13 years there and previously held chief officer positions with the Hereford Volunteer Fire Company and Butler Volunteer Fire Company.

Professionally, Joey was recently appointed as executive director of the Maryland Transportation Authority. Prior to that, he served as the authority's chief operating officer, as the chief engineer for operations at the State Highway Administration, and in other leadership roles with the SHA and the Federal Highway Administration. He was a nationally recognized expert on traffic management during highway emergency incidents, and a dedicated advocate for highway safety.

Our hearts go out to his wife and his daughters. We will miss Joey's knowledge and celebrate his legacy of public service. Details on funeral arrangements are pending.