Fire News New York State 3-2026

House Fire on Leeds Athens Road

On February 1, 2026, Athens Fire was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Leeds Athens Road.

See story on page 6

Rochester Vacant House Fire

Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Hoeltzer Street for the report of a fire.

See story on page 14

Cambria Heights Basement Fire

FDNY companies in the Cambria Heights section of Queens battled a basement fire.

See story on page 24

3-Alarmer in Ridgewood

Queens firefighters fought a multiple alarm fire in Ridgewood.

See story on page 25

1 Killed 9 Injured in Queens Blaze

One person was killed and nine others were injured in a four-alarm fire.

See story on page 35

Chester 2-Alarmer

Chester Fire District firefighters responded for a house fire

See story on page 37

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Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ

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Critical Challenges Facing the State’s Fire and EMS Delivery Model: Compensation & Strengthening

To All Members of the Volunteer Fire Service:

We write to you all first, as members of our beloved volunteer fire service. As organizations representing fire districts, fire chiefs, and fire coordinators across New York, we wish to address critical challenges facing the State’s fire and EMS delivery model and to request your support for two important legislative initiatives under discussion by our joint task force.

New York’s fire and emergency response system, particularly in suburban and rural areas—depends heavily on volunteer firefighters. Governing boards maintain statutory responsibility for ensuring fire and EMS services; fire chiefs oversee daily operational management; and fire coordinators support both by coordinating effective service delivery across jurisdictions. Together, these entities form the backbone of the State’s emergency response network.

However, this system is now under unprecedented strain. Volunteer participation continues to decline due to economic pressures, increasing training and certification demands, rising call volumes, and the personal financial burden placed on volunteers who work to balance family, employment, and emergency response obligations. Without meaningful action, many communities face the real risk of diminished response capability, longer response times, and compromised public and firefighter safety.

Over recent weeks, our organizations have collaborated as a joint task force to address these challenges by exploring two specific, practical, and urgently needed initiatives:

1. Authority for fire districts and departments to provide nominal compensation to volunteer firefighters

This proposal would allow local jurisdictions—consistent with existing laws and best practices—to offer modest compensation to volunteers for the time they devote to protecting their communities. Comparable systems are already in place and function effectively in other states. This is not intended to replace the proud tradition of volunteer service; rather, it is designed to stabilize and sustain it. Modest compensation would serve as a valuable recruitment and retention tool, acknowledging the growing demands placed on volunteers while helping ensure adequate staffing for emergency response. Nominal compensation would also follow the guidelines of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Any concerns regarding LOSAP programs or the Volunteer Firefighters Benefit Law (VFBL) would be addressed to continue protecting volunteer firefighters.

2. Enhanced county level authority to strengthen fire protection services

This initiative would provide counties with the authority and tools needed to support and supplement fire protection services where local

resources may be insufficient. The concept has garnered support from leadership across the fire service community and represents a practical approach to improving response readiness, leveraging shared resources, and addressing disparities in coverage.

Both proposals are intentionally non mandatory. They simply provide local authorities with flexibility and authority to implement solutions that improve public safety, firefighter safety, and community resilience. Ensuring that communities have timely, adequate emergency response capability is essential to protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

We note with some concern that FASNY has recently expressed positions contrary to those they conveyed publicly during prior joint meetings. Nonetheless, we remain focused on consensus driven solutions that strengthen the fire service statewide. While FASNY has recommended additional proposals, many of which we generally support; the purpose of our task force has been to seek agreement specifically on these two initiatives. We continue to believe that both represent meaningful, attainable, and urgently needed steps toward modernizing New York’s fire and EMS delivery system.

Brothers and sisters, your advocacy and support are essential to advancing these critical initiatives. As members of your respective fire departments, your voices carry significant influence in shaping policies that directly impact on the safety and resilience of communities across New York State. We respectfully urge you to support these efforts and help us move legislation forward, once it is formally drafted and presented, that will strengthen, sustain, and protect the volunteer fire service on which so many New Yorkers rely and to give local fire districts and departments some additional tools to sustain the volunteer fire service that we all love.

In the coming months, representatives from our task force will be traveling around the state to provide accurate information on these two initiatives and to answer questions. Thank you all for your continued selfless service to your communities.

Respectfully,

Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York

David Denniston, Ralph Raymond

New York State Association of Fire Chiefs

Richard Lyman, Bruce Heberer

Fire Coordinators Association of the State of New York

Bill Streicher, Tim Yaeger

Nassau-Suffolk Fire Districts Legislative Committee

Ray Maguire, Tom Richardson

House Fire on Leeds Athens Road

At approximately 1030 hours on February 1, 2026, Athens Fire was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Leeds Athens Road. Upon arrival, Athens Car 2 established command for smoke showing from the upper floors of the older home. Additional manpower was requested, and crews quickly went to work advancing lines and addressing fire around the chimney area. Thanks to fast action, and strong teamwork, the fire was brought under control within about

20 minutes, with crews conducting a thorough overhaul to ensure no further extension. Mutual aid was provided by Catskill Fire, Catskill Ambulance, Greene EMS, West Athens-Lime Street Fire, Coxsackie Fire, City of Hudson Fire , Greene County Car 4, Greene County Sheriff’s, Earlton Fire, and Greene County 911 Dispatch. No injuries were reported.

Cold Night for Rochester Fire

On January 24, 2026, Rochester firefighters responded to North Street for a caller reporting a house on fire. Companies quickly arrived to find heavy fire showing from the rear of the dwelling extending from the first to second floor. Crews were able to get lines

into operation as trucks opened up and quickly knocked down the fire. Firefighters would continue to overhaul and chase down extension in bitterly cold temperatures. – Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Queens 5 Alarm Fire Extends to 4 Buildings, 1 FF Injured

FDNY companies in Bushwick, Brooklyn operated at a two-alarm blaze in an occupied multiple dwelling on Halsey Street on February 4, 2026. The fire was located in the basement and on the

first floor of the three-story building. Four civilians were evaluated by FDNY EMS for minor injuries. – Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Fort Johnson Volunteer Fire Company Closes after 90 years (Montgomery County)

The Fort Johnson Volunteer Fire Company will no longer have a contract with the town of Amsterdam. This is raising questions about what these changes mean for the neighboring departments and the community.

The fire company was officially closed on New Year’s Eve. Now residents in this community need to rely on neighboring fire departments to answer the call.

This decision was made in October 2025 by the town board. In a statement, the Town Supervisor of Amsterdam said the decision is part of a plan to restructure and consolidate local fire departments. However, they did not expand on that further. Now as for how they will operate…

“We’ve split it between Hagaman and Tribes Hill. And there’s a road in the town of Amsterdam called Steadwell. That’s right about where the map line is. So, everything west of Steadwell, Tribes Hill will cover and everything east of that, Hagaman will cover,” said Jeff Smith, Montgomery County Sheriff.

Dear Members of the Town of Amsterdam Board: On behalf of the officers and members of the Fort Johnson Fire Company, Inc., let me express their appreciation for the privilege of serving their neighbors in their time of greatest need. As is occurring within the volunteer fire service throughout this nation, however, it is difficult to muster and maintain the crews necessary to adequately assure consistent delivery of service, and that growing reality has now come to the Town of Amsterdam.

“As a result, the fire company will not be contesting the Town’s intentions to not renew its contract for fire protection for 2026.”

The fire company, a private not-for-profit corporation governed by the provisions of the New York Not-for-Profit Corporation Law and regulated by the Office of the State Comptroller and the Office of the Attorney General, will not necessarily be going away

just because its contract with the Town [expired on] December 31, 2025. As an organization, the fire company will have to undertake a process of assessing its future, and whether and when a dissolution of the fire company is indicated. The fire company board will be steadfast in its preservation of the fire company assets, assess its liabilities, and determine with its members whether it has some future, non-firefighting role to serve in the community, or whether dissolution is the best path forward.

In the meantime, the fire company wants to be helpful and purposeful in assisting the Hagaman Fire Company and Tribe Hill Fire Company in their respective assumption of fire

protection in the area currently served by the Fort Johnson company. This may include the leasing or donating of equipment, the migration of members from the fire company to those other fire companies, and providing any other property or services that the fire company may be able to provide as it determines its own future and establishes a time frame for responsibly governing its affairs.

The Fort Johnson Fire Company looks forward to helping to secure the public safety future for the residents of its response area. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve the Town of Amsterdam for so many years, and best wishes to Hagaman and Tribe Hill as they take on a new chapter in their respective histories.

- Submitted by Mark Perfetti

Rochester Vacant House Fire

On January 4, 2026, Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Hoeltzer Street for the report of a fire. First arriving companies found smoke showing from a boarded up vacant dwelling and declared a working fire. Truck companies started taking boards off the home as engine companies worked their way inside and quickly knocked down the fire. Crews continued to overhaul and check for extension. – Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Woodhaven House Fire

A fire broke out at a two-story home on 77th Street in the Woodhaven section of Queens on January 6, 2026. FDNY units arrived to find fire on the first and second floors with window bars hampering fire operations. No injuries were reported. – Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Queens Village Heavy Fire on Arrival

temperatures hampered fire operations.

Obstacles Make Bronx 4-Alarmer Fight Problematic

FDNY units responded to a four-alarm blaze in a mixed occupancy building on Adee Avenue in the Bronx on January 28, 2026, stretching FDNY resources. The fire was believed to have started in a ground floor deli with extensions to apartments on the top two

floors. Recent snowfall, freezing temperatures, and the elevated train tracks in front of the fire building were obstacles to fire operations. – Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Obstacles Make Bronx 4-Alarmer Fight Problematic (

The Year in Review/The Year Ahead

By Michael Hartzman, CFP®

With 2025 in the rearview mirror let’s take a quick look at the stock market returns.

Remarkably 2025 was the third year in a row where the market was up well over 15 percent and the average return over the past three years has been over 20 percent annually.

The S&P500 was up 17 percent and Dow Jones was up 13.7 and the Tech heavy NASDQ was up 21.4 percent.

Like most years, these returns did not come with aggravation along the way. The imposition of severe tariffs on most of our trading partners in April caused an immediate and dramatic downturn with the market selling off 20 percent at one point. Once the Trump Administration backed off on the imposing the most severe tariffs the market quickly rebounded.

The market was also worried about when and how much the Federal Reserve would cut Interest Rates, the weakening of the Job Market and Inflation ticking slightly higher.

So, with all the worry that the market had to navigate why did it go up as well as it did?

The main driver of the positivity and optimism in 2025, will more than likely be the same driver in 2026. The boom in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the rapid expansion of the infrastructure build out was and will remain one of the main catalysts of growth. AI related capital expenditure contributed significantly to the US Gross Domestic Product, with billions

of dollars committed by some of the largest tech companies in the world racing towards being the leaders in the AI build out.

This is all combined with a resilient consumer continuing to spend. While the economy has slowed somewhat and the job market has weakened, it is not falling apart. There are also not many economists predicting a recession or a doom-and-gloom scenario.

Heading into 2026 there remains optimism created by the AI innovation boom and the build out necessary to support it combined with strong corporate earnings and the expectation of lower interest rates. However, just like every year it will not be a straight line and expect the normal volatility along the way. As of this writing the US went into Venezuela with the intent to capture their President and bring back to the US to stand trial.

Whether you agree or not with the actions of the US, what is important is that China is the main consumer of oil in Venezuela, and any disruptions our actions might cause the Chinese will likely lead to some sort of economic retaliation from them. What we know about the stock market is the problems while always different always present the same challenges. Remember that history is on our side as investors and patience and calm are usually the best strategy. As I have mentioned many times in this space, make sure your portfolio matches your time horizon for

accessing the funds, and your risk tolerance also matches your asset allocation.

Michael Hartzman, President of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc., is a seasoned financial advisor and commentator with extensive experience in wealth management and market analysis. He brings clear insights into investing strategies and economic trends to help readers navigate today’s markets.

To learn more from Michael Hartzman, tune in to The Lebenthal Report Podcast — live on VoiceAmerica’s Business Radio every Tuesday at 5 PM EST — or download episodes wherever you get your podcasts.

Chaplain Barrie-Lyn Foster Honored as One of New York’s 100 Most Outstanding Corporate Citizens

Congratulations to Chaplain Barrie-Lyn Foster! City and the State of NY honored her as one of New York’s 100 most outstanding corporate citizens at the Corporate Social Responsibility Awards luncheon held at Sony Hall in New York City.

The award recognition reflects the extraordinary impact she has on New York’s volunteer firefighters and their families.

As FASNY’s chaplain and pastor of the United Church of Genoa, Barrie-Lyn’s roles dovetail seamlessly, allowing her to serve firefighter families with emotional, physical, mental and spiritual care. Her lifetime of service — as ordained clergy, former assistant fire chief, certified EMT, NYS fire officer, nationally certified fire instructor, and Chief Chaplain for the NYS Association of Fire Chaplains — has shaped an approach to social responsibility grounded in presence, compassion, and genuine help.

For Barrie-Lyn, showing up is the most important thing she can do. Whether offering quiet prayers, sharing needed resources, helping during emergencies, or teaching other chaplains to serve with sincerity, she embodies what it means to care for people without barriers or labels. She often reflects on the prayer of FDNY Chaplain Fr. Mychal Judge: “Lord, take me where you want me to go… and keep me out of your way.” Today’s honor celebrates her unwavering commitment to that calling.

Woodhaven House Fire Extends

1 Killed, 14+ Injured at Bronx 4-Alarmer

Battalion 15 transmitted a 10-77 for an odor of gas, a short time later he transmitted a 10-60 (major emergency) for a gas explosion on a sixth floor apartment on Biviona Street on January 24, 2026. Multiple people and multiple firefighters were trapped on the apartment floor. The incident went to a fourth alarm. – Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

Cambria Heights Basement Fire

3-Alarmer in Ridgewood

Queens firefighters fought another multiple alarm fire in Ridgewood on January 17, 2026. Units responded to calls for smoke from a commercial building. They arrived to heavy fire in an auto shop that extended to an occupied multi-dwelling on Flushing

Avenue. The 28 Battalion transmitted a second alarm as the fire extended to the second and third floors. All members were removed from the building and Division 14 transmitted a third alarm.

Athen’s, Hudson’s Dive Teams Hold Ice/Coldwater Rescue Drill

On January 11, 2026, the Athens Fire Department’s Water Rescue team held an ice rescue coldwater drill at Sleepy Hollow Lake. The City of Hudson Fire Department’s Water Rescue team was also present during this training. Dive members were getting familiarized with some coldwater dives and other team members practiced ice rescue techniques. Athens and City of Hudson frequently respond together for water rescue calls in each of their districts.

- Fire News photos by John C. Miller

West Albany 9th Installation … And an Eventful Award

On January 17, 2026, the West Albany Fire Department held its 97th annual installation banquet. During the event, Chief Daniel Sullivan was awarded the honor of being named Firefighter of the Year. In a tearful acceptance speech he stated that he could not do his job without the support of his fire family. The department has nick-named Chief Sullivan CFL (Chief for Life). Chief Sullivan is a beloved and respected member of not only his own department but the other departments in the Town of Colonie. His knowledge is extensive and he is always willing to share his knowledge and is supportive of other firefighters including the Explorers of the depart-

ment. Chief Sullivan is also supported by both of his sons Brett and Daniel, Jr., who grew up in the department and now are paid firefighters in the Troy Fire Department and his wife, Louise who fights fires alongside her family. This year’s firematic officers who were installed include: Chief Daniel Sullivan, Assistant Chiefs Victor and Matthew Graves, Captain, Dave Reedy, Lieutenants, Edwin Nazario, Terry Spawn, Steve Gladding, Frank Ridner and Dustin Laughman, Fire Police Stan Skop and Wayne Woodard. Congratulations to everyone.

- Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck

Brooklyn 4-Alarm Warehouse Blaze

FDNY Ladder Company 101 transmitted a 10-75 for fire in a warehouse on Columbia Street in Brooklyn on January 21, 2026. The 31st Battalion transmitted a second alarm as fire vented through

bay doors and through the roof. Multiple hoselines and four ladders were put into operation. The fire ultimately went to four alarms.

Fully Involved Pickup Doesn’t Extend

In the early morning hours of January 9, 2026, Boght, Latham and West Crescent responded to a vehicle fire on Schermerhorn Road. Upon arrival, a pick-up was found completely involved. Neighbors were awakened by two explosions which were the front tires bursting. The fire melted a nearby garbage pail to nothing but left the

other vehicle another a few feet away unscathed. Part of the garage door was also melted but, considering the how close the vehicle was to the residence, it was amazing that was all that was damaged. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck

Hagaman Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony

The Hagaman Annual Banquet was held on January 24, 2026, first, at the Lyon Street Bar and Grill for dinner and then back at the Hagaman firehouse for the award ceremony. While at the dinner, a citation was presented to the Chief by NYS Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. – Fire News photos by Mark

NewtoTHEM

Leadership Conference a Success

On January 10, 2026, the New Hackensack Fire Department, Hughsonville Fire Department, and The Town of Wappingers took great pride in hosting a leadership conference. This event was organized in collaboration with The Fire Chief’s Council of Dutchess County, the Dutchess County Association of Fire Districts, and the Dutchess County Volunteer Firefighters Association.

The workshop attracted over 120 firefighters from across the Hudson Valley, highlighting the strong commitment to professional development within the region’s fire service community.

Deputy Chief Frank Viscuso, a best-selling fire service author and the 2025 FDIC Instructor of the Year, led the conference. He presented his critically acclaimed interactive leadership program, “Step Up and Lead.”

The workshop was designed for a wide range of participants, including firefighters, lieutenants, captains, chief officers, future fire officers, and commissioners. Recognizing the ever-changing nature of the fire service, the program emphasized that firefighters can always add another tool to their toolbox by engaging in ongoing leadership training.

–

Secretary Dutchess County VFA

Submitted by Vincent Galvin, Financial

1 Fatality at Rochester House Fire

In the evening hours of January 16, 2026, Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Lyell Avenue for a caller reporting a fire in a home with people possibly trapped. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from the top floor in the rear. Rescue and truck companies quickly started searching for the trapped victim as engine crews made an aggressive push on the heavy fire conditions on the top floor. Firefighters located a victim who was, unfortunately, deceased. The fire was under control shortly after. – Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Middle Hope Structure Fire on Leslie Rd.

Middle Hope Fire Department responded to reported structure fire on Leslie Road. Command arrived to a garage fully involved. Asecond alarm was sounded bringing Cronomer Valley, Good Wil, Newburgh, Vails Gate, Marlboro and New Windsor. Deputy Fire Coordinator 36-12, along with Town of Newburgh Police-and EMS and Central Hudson also responded.

– Fire News photos by Robert McCormick

1 Killed 9 Injured in Queens Blaze

One person was killed and nine others were injured in a four-alarm fire on Dongan Avenue in the Elmhurst section of Queens on the evening of February 9, 2026. Three private dwellings were involved. – Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Rochester House Fire on Fernwood Ave

On December 13, 2025, Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Fernwood Avenue for a caller stating the house across the street was on fire. Crews arrived to find smoke showing from a home and declared a working fire. Engine companies stretched lines and made a push as truck and rescue companies moved in to do a search and open up. The fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control.

Bronx 3-Alarm; 2 Rescued

EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN

After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.

Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.

I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters. Konstant Design –Premium Apparel. Bold Designs. Built to Perform.

FDNY Engine 92 and Tower Ladder 44 transmitted a 10-75 for fire in a top-floor apartment on Grand Concourse in the Bronx on February 2, 2026. Members had to deal with heavy snow and ice while operating on the roof. The 17th transmitted a second alarm as units discovered heavy fire in the cockloft of the A wing. Division 6 transmitted a third alarm as fire spread to the B wing. Units were able to rescue a pair of residents. They were removed to a local hospital, one in critical condition and one in stable condition.

–

Lloyd Mitchell

KUSSMAUL ELECTRONICS WELCOMES DAMON LEWIS AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Kussmaul Electronics proudly announces the appointment of Damon Lewis as Vice President of Sales, effective December 2025. This strategic leadership addition reflects Kussmaul’s continued commitment to the Emergency Vehicle industry and its future growth. Damon brings more than two decades of experience in the Emergency Vehicle industry and is widely recognized for his ability to foster long‐term customer relationships, lead high‐performing sales teams, and drive strategic growth. He has held senior roles in sales and business development at Whelen Engineering, Code 3, and Fouts Bros., serving both domestic and international markets across Fire and EMS segments.

His leadership background, combined with technical product expertise and a deep understanding of operational challenges, makes Damon uniquely equipped to understand the evolving needs of the industry and deliver practical, effective solutions. In his new role at Kussmaul, Damon will lead the company’s sales team and commercial strategy across North America and international markets, with a focus on customer experience, growth, and strengthened relationships across the Emergency Vehicle industry. He will work closely with OEMs, dealers, and departments to expand the company’s market presence while upholding the high standards of quality and service that Kussmaul is known for. Additionally, Damon will serve as Vice President of International Sales for MCE Vehicle Power, where he will work closely with Xantrex, one of Kussmaul’s sister companies, to strengthen the division’s global presence. “We’re excited to welcome Damon to the Kussmaul leadership team,” said Dale Tompkins, President of Vehicle Power at MCE. “His experience, integrity, and customer‐first mindset align perfectly with our mission to support those who serve.”

Damon’s appointment marks an important step forward in Kussmaul’s commitment to providing dependable, innovative power solutions that keep emergency vehicles energized and ready when seconds count.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Valeria Donoghue

Marketing Manager

valeria.donoghue@mce‐llc.com

REMEMBER FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS, ONE BELL AT TIME

Each year, the sound of bells carries across the country in a powerful act of remembrance.

Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters is a moving nationwide tribute honoring America’s firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. Fire departments, places of worship, carillonneurs, and community organizations unite to ring bells in their memory—ensuring they are never forgotten.

This tribute takes place during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, when the nation pauses to honor those who died in the line of duty. By ringing bells on the weekend of May 2–3, 2026, you send a clear message to Fire Hero Families: your loved one’s service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Whether you toll a single bell at your station, host a public ceremony, or invite your entire community to participate, your involvement matters.

Add your bell to the national chorus of remembrance.

Chester 2-Alarmer

Phoenicia’s Michael ‘Mike’ Ryan

It is with deep sorrow that the Phoenicia Fire District honors the life and service of Michael ‘Mike’ Ryan who passed away in the line of duty while responding to an injured hiker in Shandaken. He was 61-years old

Mike dedicated 45 years of his life to the fire service. He served our community as an active firefighter for decades and most recently as a member of the Phoenicia Fire District Board of Commissioners. His commitment to public service never wavered.

Michael was a man whose life was defined by service, bravery, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of others. Born on March 22, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York, Michael was the fourth son of Finola and the late William J. Ryan. His early years in Brooklyn were the foundation of a life that would be dedicated to helping others. In 1970, the Ryan family moved to Phoenicia, New York, where Michael would eventually meet the love of his life, Debra Jo, and together they built a life filled with love and adventure.

Beyond Phoenicia, Mike devoted his life to protecting and training others. He served 25

years with the Kingston Police Department, rising to Team Leader within the Emergency Services Unit, and played a critical role in tactical operations and regional training. He was a proud member of KPD’s Honor Guard, a veteran of the US Air Force, and continued serving as a police trainer even after retirement. Michael served with honor and distinction, including deployments to Afghanistan in response to the WTC attacks, to Pakistan in 2003, and to Camp Buqa, Iraq, in 2005.

Mike held himself to the highest standards of service, leadership, and integrity. He mentored countless firefighters and officers, shaped training programs across the region, and led by example in every role he held.

His loss is felt deeply by our department, our community, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy of service will not be forgotten.

Rest easy, Mike. We’ll take it from here.

– Courtesy of the Phoenicia Fire District