Ulster County Fire Chief Dies in Line of Duty

Local fire chief David A. Gagnon of the Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company died during the line of duty on Friday.

Chief Gagnon and other Cottekill Fire Department members responded to a report of a tree in the roadway in the Town of Rosendale on Friday, July 3, at 3:06 p.m. according to local fire department reports.

While working to remove the tree from the road, Gagnon was struck by a portion of the tree after it abruptly snapped and struck him.

Fellow firefighters, along with local first aid and local and county police departments, immediately initiated life-saving measures.

“Chief Gagnon faithfully served the Cottekill Fire Department and his community with dedication, leadership and commitment. His passing is a profound loss to his family, fellow firefighters, the department and the community,” stated a press release from the Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company.

Messages flooded social media following Gagnon’s death, with condolences and heartfelt memories of Gagnon.

Gagnon devoted more than three decades to the Cottekill Fire Department, serving as Assistant Chief and eventually Fire Chief, according to his obituary.

“He enjoyed golf, fishing, and especially time with his grandchildren, who brought him great joy. Dave’s kindness, courage, and sense of duty touched many lives. He will be deeply missed, and his legacy of service, compassion, and love will endure,” the obituary stated.

Gagnon served a 35-year career in the military in the New York Army National Guard, serving during 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy. His service also included combat deployment in Iraq and training missions in Israel, South Africa, Brazil, and Peru.

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger shared that the tragedy is “a painful reminder of the courage and commitment our emergency responders show every day, stepping into unpredictable and often dangerous situations to keep the rest of us safe.”

“Chief Gagnon stepped up in this way every day with dedication, professionalism, and integrity, and his loss is felt deeply across our community. In recognition of his sacrifice, I have directed that the flags at County buildings be flown at half-mast beginning July 6,” said Metzger. “May his memory be a source of comfort and strength to all who loved him. My deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and Cottekill Fire District community.”

Photo Credit: Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company