In memory of Chief David A. Gagnon

David A. Gagnon, Chief of Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company, a firefighter / EMS, died in the line of duty on July 3, 2026 in Cottekill, NY.

Record

• Rank: Chief
• Department: Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company
• Location: Cottekill, NY
• End of watch: July 3, 2026
• Nature of death: Trauma
• Years of service: 34
• Age: 58

Circumstances

Chief David Gagnon responded with the Cottekill Volunteer Fire Company to a call for a tree down across a roadway. While operating on scene and working to remove the tree from the roadway, Chief Gagnon was struck by a portion of the tree when it unexpectedly snapped. Fellow firefighters and other first responders immediately initiated life-saving measures. Chief Gagnon was then transported to a local hospital where, despite all efforts, he passed away.

This record appears on the RESPONDin line-of-duty memorial wall, a public remembrance of first responders who died in the line of duty. Source: usfa import.