A Mount Vernon firefighter died in the line of duty this morning.

City officials say Kevin Townes, 54, collapsed while preparing to put out flames during an early morning house fire.

Townes, of Pleasant Valley, was married with three kids. He was a member of Oak Street Firehouse, Station Four, and had spent over 25 years with the department.

In addition to being respected by his firefighter brethren, Townes was beloved by his family. His younger brother Gregory says Kevin simply enjoyed being around people. "He was a larger-than-life individual. He would come in here and really just light up this room."

From White Plains originally, Townes was heavily involved in local sports, including the White Plains football program and the Mount Vernon Fire Department softball team.

To watch the complete news conference about the death of Mount Vernon firefighter Kevin Townes, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Family mourns fallen Mount Vernon firefighter