Tragedy Strikes as Fired Firefighter Dies of Heart Attack: Outrage Ensues
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the recent death of ex-firefighter Derek Floyd has ignited a wave of outrage in New York City. City lawmakers are demanding action from Mayor Adams and FDNY officials, urging them to support Floyd’s grieving family. The circumstances surrounding Floyd’s firing and subsequent death have raised questions about the city’s treatment of its dedicated public servants.
Derek Floyd, a 36-year-old Marine veteran, suffered a heart attack earlier this month and tragically passed away. His family was left with next to nothing after he was terminated late last year as part of the city’s cost-cutting measures to address the migrant crisis. The administration’s decision to prioritize funding for asylum seekers has left Floyd’s family in dire financial straits.
Politicians from both sides of the aisle have expressed their outrage upon learning of Floyd’s story. Bob Holden, a Queens representative, took to social media to voice his dismay, questioning why a man who served both his country and his city was treated so poorly. He emphasized that Floyd’s family deserves better treatment and called for the FDNY to have made greater efforts to accommodate him medically.
Floyd’s termination came just days before the administration implemented 5% cuts, resulting in his family being denied the more than $600,000 in death benefits that he would have been entitled to had he still been on the job. City officials claim that the fire department targeted employees on long-term light duty who were unable to return to work for an extended period. Floyd had suffered a heart attack at home, preventing him from completing the fire academy and ultimately limiting his role to working in the ceremonial unit.
Christine Floyd, Derek’s widow, spoke candidly about their difficult journey over the past few months. She acknowledged the toll that her husband’s firing took on him but praised his resilience and positive attitude. The loss of his job undoubtedly affected him, but he remained hopeful and non-resentful.
Lawmakers are demanding that the mayor rectify this injustice and ensure that the Floyd family receives the benefits that Derek would have been entitled to. Joe Borelli, minority leader and Staten Island representative, expressed his frustration with the situation, while Councilmember Joann Ariola called it a “travesty.” Ariola attended Floyd’s funeral and witnessed the pain on his family’s faces. She emphasized that Derek was a true hero and that he and his family deserved better treatment.
Oswald Feliz, a Bronx Democrat, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for support to prevent the family from facing financial instability following their tragic loss.
Despite the administration’s denial that Floyd’s firing was related to budget cuts, fire officials have acknowledged discussions about providing financial assistance to the family. However, a timeline for when this support will materialize remains unclear.
In response to this devastating event, the Uniformed Firefighter Association has established a fund to support the Floyd family. Donations can be made to the “New York Firefighters Foundation,” with funds sent by mail to FF Derek Floyd C/O UFA – NYFFinc 204 E. 23rd St., New York, NY 10010. Additionally, the FDNY Foundation has created a college fund for Derek’s two children, ages 2 and 6, and has offered assistance with funeral costs and counseling.
The tragic death of Derek Floyd has shed light on the treatment of public servants in New York City. It has sparked outrage among lawmakers and citizens alike, who are demanding justice for his family. As the city grapples with budget decisions and the migrant crisis, it is crucial that the sacrifices made by individuals like Derek Floyd are recognized and appropriately honored. The city must do better to ensure that heroes and their families receive the support they deserve.
