Westchester County firefighter dies from 9/11-related illnesses after working at Ground Zero

Updated 2 hours ago
HARRISON, New York (WABC) -- A Harrison firefighter died on Monday from 9/11-related illnesses after serving at the World Trade Center following the 2001 terror attacks.

Firefighter Kenneth J. Fusco worked at Ground Zero on September 11th and in the months that followed.

He assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts following the attacks where he breathed in toxins that ultimately led to his death, officials said.

He proudly served the Harrison Fire Department for 45 years.

Harrison Fire Department



In a statement, Chief John Masciola of the Harrison Fire Department said Fusco will not only be remembered for his bravery on 9/11, but for his lifetime of service, mentorship and brotherhood.



"He was a pillar in the Harrison community and touched many lives with his kind heart and generous nature," Masciola said. "Firefighter Fusco will forever be part of our department's history and our collective memory. We will never forget."

Masciola said the department will recognize the loss as a line-of-duty death.

"As we continue to lose brave firefighters to 9/11 related illnesses, we are reminded of our duty to those still fighting," Masciola said. "We urge continued full funding of the World Trade Center Health Program to ensure every responder receives the care they earned and deserve."

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