A Saugerties volunteer fireman was killed early last evening while responding to a chimney fire on Fel Qui Rd.
At 6:59 p.m., Dec. 19, the Centerville Fire District responded to the fire, and mutual aid from Mount Marion Fire Department was also dispatched.
During the firefighting operation interior firefighter Jack H. Rose of Saugerties, a member of the Mount Marion Fire Department, became separated from his team. Rose was quickly located by fellow firefighters and removed from the basement. Once outside, Rose became unresponsive and firefighters initiated lifesaving measures. Rose was treated by paramedics at the scene and transported by DIAZ Ambulance the Health Alliance Hospital, Kingston Broadway Campus, where efforts to revive Rose continued. Rose eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Rose, a three-year member of the Mt. Marion Fire Department, was recently elected to the position of captain. Mt. Marion Fire Chief Dave Ayers stated his department “is devastated over the loss of such a young life and a devoted member of the community,” adding that Rose was loved by all in the fire service who knew him.
The cause of the fire and the death of Rose is currently under investigation by authorities from the Saugerties Police Department, The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, (OFPC) in addition to the Ulster County Bureau of Cause and Origin.
Funeral arrangements are being coordinated through Seamon-Wilsey of Saugerties. A “gofundme” account has also been established for donations.
A video tribute was post today to youtube. See it here.