A Binghamton firefighter died battling a fire Wednesday night.
John R. Gaudet, 40, was an 11-year veteran of the Binghamton Fire Department. He and two other firefighters were injured at a fire at 1 Main Street that was reported at about 10 p.m. According to social media posts from area departments, Mayday calls were made reporting multiple firefighters were trapped.
Gaudet died after a wall collapsed and struck him while crews were battling the fire, Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham said in a statement.
Gaudet was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City, where he was pronounced dead. The two other Binghamton firefighters also injured were treated at UHS Wilson Medical Center and released Thursday.
The Binghamton Fire Department released a statement praising Gaudet’s service.
“JR embodied what it means to be a firefighter—fearless, dedicated, and always putting others before himself. His infectious smile, unwavering positivity, and relentless work ethic made him a brother to all who had the honor of serving alongside him. He was the kind of firefighter you could always count on, the one who would have your back no matter the situation. At fires, he was a bull—always first in line to get inside. He would literally run through a wall for you. There was no one better to have by your side, it said in part. “
Gaudet leaves behind a wife and three children.
Earlier coverage:
A Binghamton firefighter was killed at a fire Wednesday night on Court Street.
The fire was called in around 10 p.m. The Owego Fire Department reported via facebook that while battling the fire, a Mayday was called reporting multiple firefighters trapped in a collapse.
WBNG reports CPR was performed on one firefighter at the scene. In total, three firefighters were rushed to Wilson Hospital where one was declared dead. Two other firefighters remain in the hospital in stable condition, according to Binghamton’s mayor.
The name of the fallen firefighter has not yet been released, pending notification of family members. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“This is an unspeakable tragedy, and our hearts are broken for the firefighter’s family,”Binghamton Mayor Jared M. Kraham said in a statement. “Every day, our firefighters brave dangerous situations to protect citizens and keep our community safe. The men and women who dedicate their lives to this work are heroes. Tonight, the City of Binghamton mourns a fallen hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
