**STATEMENT** Senator James Sanders Jr. Offers Condolences After Firefighter Dies A Day After Battling Blaze in Far Rockaway

Senator James Sanders Jr. said: “It is with great sadness that I announce that we lost one of New York's Bravest. Firefighter Jesse B. Gerhard, 33, has passed away one day after battling a blaze at a house in Far Rockaway. As a member of the FDNY, and formerly an EMT, this young man dedicated his life to saving others. He has earned the respect of the community and this is a tremendous loss for our entie city. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and all of the members of the FDNY who are grieving. We will be visiting his firehouse today (Ladder 134 at 1617 Central Avenue in Far Rockaway) to pay our respects."