Local firefighters mourn the loss of two comrades in Buffalo

Posted by Howard Owens on August 25, 2009 - 8:30am
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McCarthy_Chas-1lg.jpgCroom_Jon-1lg.jpgFlags at fire departments throughout Genesee County are flying at half staff today to honor two fallen comrades in Buffalo early Monday.

Buffalo's Lt. Charles W. "Chip" McCarthy Jr. and Firefighter Jonathan S. Croom died in a fire at a deli on Genesee Street, by apparently falling through the floor of the burning building while looking for a possible victim trapped inside.

McCarthy, a 22-year veteran of the department who comes from a family of Buffalo firefighters, is survived by his wife, Terry, three children and a 6-month-old grandchild. Croom, a 10-year veteran, leaves a 9-month-old child and his fiancee; fire officials said he lost a young child a few years ago.

The men and women who worked with McCarthy and Croom remember them as dedicated, professional firefighters.

Posted by william tapp on August 25, 2009 - 8:50am
a very sad day for buffalo, god bless the firemen and there famleys. thank god we have people that will do that job.
Posted by Donna Jackett on August 25, 2009 - 10:31am
Firefighters are not paid enough for what they do! God Bless these fine men and their families. May they rest in peace.