FDNY Commissioner Orders Changes in Wake of High-Rise Fire

Aug. 27, 2007
Three officials have been relieved of their commands and detailed to headquarters pending outcome of the investigation.

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NEW YORK-- FDNY Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta announced Monday, Aug. 27, a series of changes following the fatal fire at the former Deutshe Bank building that claimed the lives of two of the city's bravest.

Firefighter Robert Beddia, 53, of Engine 24 and Firefighter Joseph Graffagnino, 34, of Ladder 5 died Aug. 18 after becoming trapped in the building.

Pending the outcome of the investigation, Deputy Chief Richard Fuerch (Division 1), Battalion Chief John McDonald (Battalion 1) and Captain Peter Bosco (Engine Company 10) have been relieved of their commands and detailed to headquarters, according to a press release.

Several other orders detailed in the press release include:

  • Deputy Chiefs in the Department's nine Divisions have been directed to order surveillance by every fire unit in their respective administrative areas of all buildings under construction/demolition. The purpose of these inspections is to insure that all rules and regulations regarding fire protection and public safety are being adhered to.

  • Divisions are also ordered to review all existing pre-fire plans in their respective administrative areas, and to have units and Battalions canvass their areas for any potential structures that might require the creation of such plans.

  • Borough Commanders are ordered to oversee and coordinate all field fire inspection activities in their respective boroughs.

  • The Chief of Operations will conduct a review of the Department's field inspection program with emphasis on insuring accountability at all levels and making recommendations to strengthen and improve the quality and frequency of inspections by field units.

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