Over 340 first responders have died from 9/11 illnesseson September 25, 2023 at 8:21 pm

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -

As many have now died from complications as died in the attacks, the Fire Department of New York says.

This video can not be played

To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.

The Fire Department of New York has said the number of its members who have died from 9/11-related illnesses is now equal to the number lost on the day of the attacks, 343.

Two recent deaths added to the toll.

“With these deaths, we have reached a sombre, remarkable milestone,” New York City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said in a statement.

“Our hearts break for the families of these members, and all who loved them.”

Soon after the 22nd anniversary of the attacks, emergency medical technician Hilda Vannata died on 20 September from cancer, while retired firefighter Robert Fulco died of pulmonary fibrosis on 23 September, according to city officials.

Both illnesses were a “result of time they spent working in the rescue and recovery at the World Trade Center site,” the New York City Fire Department said in a statement.

Born in Puerto Rico, Vannata, who died at the age of 67, was a mother and served as an emergency services technician for 26 years, according to her obituary.

Hilda Vannata

Image source, Fire Department of New York

“She was known by all as a warm and caring person, always going out of her way to help anyone in need,” the obituary said.

Fulco, who died at the age of 73, was born in Brooklyn, New York, according to a memorial page. Well-wishers called him a “true hero”.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the 11 September attacks in 2001, with most of the deaths in New York. There, Al-Qaeda militants crashed two US passenger jets they had seized into the twin towers of the World Trade Center. The buildings were set on fire, trapping people on upper floors and enveloping the city in smoke.

Robert Fulco

Image source, Fire Department of New York

The attack marked the largest loss of emergency personnel in US history.

The New York City Fire Department said 11,000 first responders suffer from 11 September-related diseases, including 3,500 with cancer.

“So many of our members showed up for us that fateful day, and so many were lost,” the department said in a statement. “The legacy we create for them is one of honor, and one of promise.”

- Advertisement -

Discover

Sponsor

Latest

Covid-19 vaccine booking opens to 40-44-year-olds in NIon April 8, 2021 at 9:38 am

People in that age group will be able to book an appointment for a jab from midday on Thursday.People in that age group will...

Unsung Hero award: Eight finalists named for honour at Sports Personality showon December 12, 2022 at 6:30 pm

Eight finalists are named for the 2022 BBC Sports Personality Unsung Hero of the Year award.Eight finalists are named for the 2022 BBC Sports...

Rail strike: When is it and which lines will be affected?on June 16, 2022 at 10:59 am

Railway workers have voted to go on strike over pay and jobs.Railway workers have voted to go on strike over pay and jobs.

Dentists to get £20k incentive as part of plan to combat shortfallson February 7, 2024 at 9:45 am

Dental leaders say new measures to improve access to care in England do not go far enough in meeting needs.This video can not be...

Mesothelioma Attorney – Is the Diagnosis Medically Necessary?

Mesothelioma Attorney - Is the Diagnosis Medically Necessary?A person may have Mesothelioma, but only a physician can diagnose the disease. Because of this,...