SEVERN – Kevin Britt, Chief of the Severn Volunteer Fire Department, passed away Saturday evening from unknown causes.

Ronnie Storey, Director of Northampton County Emergency Management, said it came as a complete surprise

“It was very unexpected,” Storey said. “I saw him Friday night at the scene of an accident he was working and he seemed fine.”

Britt responded to the scene of a motor vehicle crash on Hwy. 35 just outside of Severn at about 6:50 p.m. on Friday. A vehicle had struck a power pole, clipping power lines and making the road impassable to large trucks coming into or departing Severn Peanuts.

“Chief Britt stayed at the scene directing traffic and clear-up while Dominion Power fixed the lines until shortly after midnight,” Storey said. “He was out on the scene for over five hours.”

Story repeated that Britt seemed fine to him on the scene.

It was reported that Britt returned home after working the accident scene. Rescue was dispatched to his residence later on Saturday in what was described as a “medical emergency.”

Chief Britt, 54, served with Severn VFD for over 30 years.

Storey said that because Britt had answered a call within 24 hours of his death, the state is investigating whether there is a causal link.

Carol Ferguson, with the Severn Town Hall, said they have been getting numerous calls from residents expressing condolences to the family and looking for ways they can help.

“This is a shock to the whole town,” Ferguson said “This was totally unexpected. He will be missed.”

She said the family is awaiting the autopsy report before finalizing funeral arrangements.