Funeral for FDNY firefighter Brian Sullivan who died from injuries sustained in line of duty
THE BRONX, New York (WABC) -- Hundreds of firefighters said their goodbyes Friday to an FDNY firefighter who died in the line of duty last weekend.
Lieutenant Brian Sullivan's funeral was held Sacred Heart Church in Monroe.
He suffered a fatal heart attack at his home in Monroe, Orange County, after responding to a kitchen fire in a Bronx apartment during his 24-hour tour of duty.
He was 54 years old.
WATCH the complete funeral process and mass
Sullivan, who worked for Squad Company 41 in the Bronx, was a 27-year veteran of the department. He is survived by his wife, Irene, and daughters Nicole and Samantha.
During his final 24-hour tour, he responded to seven emergencies and a fire, the third one he fought in a three-day period. The FDNY said Sullivan had complained of pain and discomfort to his fellow firefighters but continued responding to calls.
Later that night, he was rushed to a hospital, where he died early Saturday morning.
Sullivan is the 1,153rd member of the FDNY to die as a result of injuries sustained in the line-of-duty.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who also attended, said Sullivan was a good man who gave his heart and soul to his job.
"The inspiration, the example, you'll carry that with you, knowing that you are the daughters of such a good man. That will give you spirit, it will give you hope, even in the toughest moments," he said, addressing the fallen firefighter's daughters.
Sullivan was a member of the FDNY's bagpipe band, and during his funeral, they played and marched.
Charity groups have shown overwhelming support for Sullivan's family. Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced Wednesday that it will be taking on the mortgage on the family home, and Answer the Call will give the lieutenant's widow $25,000 to assist her with immediate expenses.
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