Mark J. McLees
Firehouse® Contributing Writer
Captain, Syracuse Rescue 1

(FHnews) -- Syracuse, New York Firefighter Jim McGroarty was killed Tuesday, January 19 when a chimney fell on him as he assisted insurance investigators at the scene of a fire that happened last week.

The 43-year-old firefighter, formerly of Syracuse's Rescue Company, had 20 years on the job and leaves behind a wife and 14-year-old daughter.

McGroarty had been assigned to investigation's office for the past 5 years. McGroarty and two investigators were working in the burned out attic at 701-3 North McBride Street shortly before 1 p.m. when a free standing chimney collapsed without warning. The insurance investigators escaped the collapse unharmed, but it appears that the chimney fell directly on McGroarty. It was suspected that a strong gust of wind was the cause of the collapse of the chimney in the 3-story wood-frame apartment building.

Even before the arrival of the Rescue Company, the bulk of the bricks had been removed by first arriving chief officers. Valiant efforts were made to continue life saving efforts while he was packaged on a stokes to be moved from the attic level via tower ladder. McGroarty succumbed after one hour in emergency surgery.

As is always the case, Jim McGroarty was a true gentleman; would help anyone who needed assistance. The entire Syracuse Fire Dept. is in a state of mourning and shock.

All prayers for the family are welcomed.

More information will be posted as it becomes available. Funeral arrangements are still pending and will be posted as soon as they become available.