Fire Chief in Upstate NY Electrocuted and Died While Responding to a Vehicle Crash
A tragedy struck in Upstate New York this week as East Branch Fire Department’s 3rd Assistant Chief Jason McGlone was fatally electrocuted while responding to a DWI crash in Delaware County. The incident occurred late Thursday evening and was confirmed by the department in an official statement released on Friday. The fire department expressed profound sorrow at the loss of McGlone, noting the significant contributions he made throughout his 25 years of dedication to the organization.
The circumstances leading to this accident unfolded around 9:30 p.m. on State Highway 30, located in the town of Hancock, which borders northeast Pennsylvania. Assistant Chief McGlone was en route to assist at the scene where a pickup truck had collided with a utility pole. Preliminary investigations by New York State Police revealed that McGlone was driving a rescue pumper when a low-hanging electrical wire made contact with the firetruck.
As he exited the vehicle to assess the situation, McGlone unfortunately came into contact with the metal door while stationed on the ground, resulting in the fatal electrocution. Despite the immediate life-saving measures taken by fellow responders, McGlone was pronounced dead at the scene.
This devastating loss has reverberated through the community and the fire department. Fire Chief Rod Keesler reflected on McGlone’s character, highlighting his reputation as a well-respected individual who was dedicated to service. He noted that McGlone’s death has created an irreplaceable void within the department.
Governor Kathy Hochul extended her condolences, praising McGlone’s long-standing commitment to public safety and his exemplary service over the years. She described him as embodying the courage, dedication, and selflessness that characterize New York’s volunteer firefighters. The governor reminded the public of the personal sacrifices made by those who serve in such essential roles, dedicating their lives to protect their communities.
As the East Branch Fire Department mourns the loss of Assistant Chief McGlone, local communities and fire departments across the region are expressing their support and solidarity with the fire service in this trying time. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks that emergency responders face while serving their communities. Further investigations are ongoing as officials aim to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
