Firefighter David Brinkley suffered a fatal heart attack on September 21, 1998, at the fire station, after responding to a car fire. A lifetime member of the United Communities Volunteer Fire Department, he served for 25 years and was one of the top three responders every year. Over the years, he served as President, Chief, Captain, and Pump Operator.

Brinkley was employed by the Maryland State Highway Administration for more than 20 years.

He was survived by his wife, Barbara; his father, William; brothers Dennis Brinkley, Wayne Brinkley, and James Dorner; and sisters, Sharon Brinkley and Rosa Politowicz.