ALBANY, NY -- Flags at Albany fire stations are flying at half mast in honor of a veteran firefighter who collapsed, and died at an incident Monday.
Theodore Abriel, 44, a member of the rescue squad, was searching a sixth floor apartment for victims when he collapsed, said Jim Miller, a fire department spokesman.
Fellow firefighters immediately started CPR, and called for paramedics to respond to the apartment. The resuscitative effort was continued en route to Albany Medical Center. However, Abriel was pronounced dead a short time later.
Abriel, a 20-year veteran, is the brother of Albany Deputy Chief Warren Abriel.
"Firefighting was his passion. He was always very dedicated and professional... a great guy," Miller said.
The name Abriel has long been associated with the Albany Fire Department. The tradition started more than 140 years ago.
Abriel is survived by his wife and four children, ranging from 11-19.
Visitation will be held from 2-7 p.m. Friday at the Palace Theater in Albany. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Pius Church, Loudounville.
