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A New York fire captain died Sunday from complications from COVID-19
New Rochelle Fire Capt. Andrew DiMaggio, 57, contracted the virus "during the course of his official duties at the firehouse" on April 5, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
"He was the guy that other firefighters wanted to be," New Rochelle Fire Chief Andy Sandor told the Westchester Journal News. "Just a really squared away guy."
DiMaggio joined the department in 1989, became lieutenant in 2002 and was promoted to captain in 2012. He also was a fire instructor for the state and Westchester County.
"Captain DiMaggio will be missed more than words can express. Andy will always be remembered for his warm smile and strong handshake," New Rochelle Uniformed Fire Fighters Association, Local 273, wrote in an online post. "While we will be left with an empty space in our hearts, just know that we are all better firefighters because of what you have taught us."
DiMaggio is survived by his mother and four children.
