Aiken, S.C., September 14, 2025

News Summary

Firefighters in Aiken held a heartfelt memorial walk to honor the first responders who sacrificed their lives during the September 11 attacks. The event, featuring a symbolic one-mile walk, gathered local firefighters and community members to remember those lost and reflect on the tragedy’s impact. Activities for families were also included, fostering community connections. Additionally, ongoing investigations are taking place related to a body found and an accidental death at a construction site, reminding residents of life’s fragility.

Aiken, S.C. – Firefighters in Aiken held a memorial walk to commemorate the sacrifices made by first responders during the September 11, 2001, attacks. This year marks the 24th anniversary of the tragedy, which left a lasting impact on emergency services across the nation.

The event featured a one-mile walk, symbolizing the 110 flights of stairs that firefighters climbed in response to the attacks on that fateful day. Dozens of local firefighters participated, including a veteran who was present in New York City on September 11, underscoring the personal connection many first responders feel to the events of that day.

Casey Martin, the president of the Aiken County Firefighters Association, emphasized the importance of honoring all those who lost their lives during the attacks, including firefighters, police officers, military personnel, and civilians. The memorial walk served not only as a tribute to the fallen but also as an opportunity for the community to reflect on the significance of the day and the ongoing recovery from its tragic effects.

In addition to the walk, the memorial event included activities for families, such as live music, a bounce house for children, and a helicopter visit that engaged attendees. The intent was to foster community connections and promote unity in remembrance.

Separately, Aiken’s community faced another incident when a body was found along Riverbend Road. However, this discovery is unrelated to the firefighter memorial event, leading to speculation and concern among local residents. The body was washed ashore, and the investigation into the identity and circumstances surrounding the death is still ongoing.

In another incident, a candle and flower memorial appeared at a construction site in Lowell following an accidental death of a man. On Thursday morning, the individual sustained injuries in an incident that left many unanswered questions. The Lowell Police Department has referred inquiries regarding the incident to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, which has yet to release any official information about the victim or the circumstances of the accident.

National Grid, which is present at the construction site, acknowledged awareness of the situation but did not provide additional details concerning the incident. The construction project at 73 Aiken Avenue commenced in 2023, replacing a structure that was destroyed by fire on September 12, 2021, an event that resulted in injuries to both firefighters and civilians.

As the community of Aiken reflects on these recent events, both the memorial walk and the tragic incidents serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of life and the strength of community solidarity.

Key Highlights of the Memorial Walk

• Commemoration of 24th anniversary of September 11 attacks
• One-mile walk symbolizes 110 flights of stairs
• Participation of local firefighters and community members
• Activities included music, a bounce house, and a helicopter visit

Current Investigations in Aiken

• Body found along Riverbend Road, not related to the memorial event
• Accidental death at construction site in Lowell under investigation
• Police defer inquiries to Middlesex District Attorney’s Office

Background Context

The September 11 attacks resulted in significant changes to emergency response protocols across the United States and served as a galvanizing moment for communities in coming together to support one another. The construction project at 73 Aiken Avenue is a continuation of the community rebuilding efforts following a previous fire that caused injuries and loss.

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Additional Resources

• Lowell Sun: Community Honors Fallen Worker
• WRDW: Aiken Holds Annual Memorial Day Parade
• WACH: South Carolina Fire Service Honors Fallen Firefighters
• Wikipedia: September 11 Attacks
• Encyclopedia Britannica: September 11 Attacks

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.