The money will be used to fund an air unit to support their self-contained breathing apparatus.

“This grant will provide our department with the funds to purchase a vital new air unit used when firefighters are trapped and need additional air while awaiting help from rescue workers,” said Brandon Fire Department Chief David Kwapis in a statement.

The accident happened as firefighters were responding to a rowhouse fire on the 800 block of F Street NE at 11:30 p.m. 

Fire officials say 28-year-old Dane Smothers Jr. was preparing hose lines and other equipment when he was struck by a ladder truck arriving at the scene. Fire officials say Smothers' uncle, a D.C. firefighter, was also on the scene of the fire. 

Smothers, a probationary firefighter, underwent surgery and is listed in critical condition. Fire officials say Smothers suffered multiple injuries above the waist.