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Firehouse.com News

Photo Courtesy Kennedy Fire Department

Fire Chief William E. Bennett, a 15 year veteran of the Kennedy Volunteer Fire Department Chautauqua County, New York, died following an accident responding to a rescue call. The crash occurred at about 6 a.m. on Tuesday, September 4.

Chief Bennett, 49, was driving a command vehicle ahead of the ambulance according to firefighter Corey J. Swanson. When the ambulance personnel lost site of Bennett’s vehicle, they searched and found the accident scene. He was transported to WCA Hospital in Jameston where he was pronounced dead.

Corey said the area was experiencing a tremendous thunderstorm at the time but they were unsure what caused the accident.

Bennett served as an active member of the Kennedy Fire Department for the last 15 years. During that time he served as an Assistant Chief for 10 years, a Fire Commissioner for 1 year, and as the Fire Chief for the past 2 years. He was active in every aspect of the fire service, not only as a department officer, but also as a mentor, a friend, and a brother to all who knew him, according to Corey.

Bennett is survived by his wife Sue, twin sons, 11, and an older son away from home. He worked as a metal fabricator and welder at Jamestown Fabricated Steel.

On Thursday, September 6, visiting hours will be held at the Falconer Funeral Home, Falconer, NY, from 2 to 4PM, and 7 to 9PM.

On Friday, September 7, funeral proceedings will begin at 1PM at the Falconer Funeral Home home. Burial will be in Kennedy.