Funeral held for FDNY firefighter who died rescuing daughter from drowning on Jersey Shore
FAIR LAWN, New Jersey (WABC) -- A funeral was held Friday for FDNY Firefighter Mark Batista, who drowned while trying to rescue his daughter in New Jersey.
Firefighters stood at attention as his flag-draped coffin was carried by members of the FDNY. His wife Leann was presented with a ceremonial fire helmet in a moment filled with sadness.
Batista was pulled from the water off Avon by the Sea last Friday.
He jumped into the water after his 11-year-old daughter got stuck in a rip current.
First responders saved her in time, but Batista didn't make it.
He was a 15-year veteran of the FDNY and was assigned to Engine Company 226. Black and purple bunting now hangs there in his honor.
Firefighters lined the streets of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, outside the Vander Plaat Colonial Home for Batista's funeral.
He grew up in Brooklyn, but lived with his family in Teaneck, New Jersey.
He leaves behind an 11-year-old daughter, and two sons in their 20s. The FDNY has set up a scholarship fund for the children.
A GoFundMe account has been set up by friends for the family.
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