NEW YORK (AP) – A tragic event unfolded in New York City on Saturday when firefighter Patrick D. Brady, 42, died after suffering a medical episode while combating a five-alarm fire at a Brooklyn apartment building. The incident occurred in the East Flatbush neighborhood, where Brady was working on the roof of a six-story structure when he went into cardiac arrest, according to the fire department.

Despite immediate efforts by fellow firefighters and paramedics to revive him, Brady was pronounced dead at Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center. His untimely death has left a profound impact on the firefighting community and the city at large.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams paid tribute to Brady, stating, “Firefighter Patrick Brady gave his life protecting the city we all love; there is no sacrifice that is more selfless than the actions that took place this evening.” His dedication to serving the city was echoed by Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker, who described Brady as “a dedicated public servant” for whom “firefighting was in his blood.”

Brady had a commendable career with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), serving for 11 years. His commitment to the profession runs deep within his family; he is not only survived by his two brothers, Jimmy and Brian, who are also firefighters, but he is also part of a family tradition that includes several cousins and uncles who have served in the fire department.

In honor of his sacrifice, purple and black bunting was placed on Sunday at his firehouse, marking a moment of mourning for his colleagues, friends, and family. The loss of Brady resonates particularly heavily as he becomes the second FDNY member to die in the line of duty in a short span of two weeks. Just days prior, on October 29, paramedic Salih Abdur Rahman lost his life after completing a shift at the fire academy on Randalls Island.

Patrick D. Brady’s legacy will undoubtedly live on within the firefighting community and through the lives he touched during his tenure with the FDNY. His dedication and service exemplify the commitment and bravery of all firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect others.