Two New York firefighters, Thomas Dunn and Dennis J. Collopy, have passed away from illnesses related to their heroic service during the 9/11 attacks, adding to the growing toll of first responders affected by the tragedy.
At a Glance
- Thomas Dunn, 52, and Dennis J. Collopy, 84, both died from 9/11-related illnesses
- Dunn served for 7 years, while Collopy had a 36-year career with the FDNY
- 343 firefighters died on 9/11, the largest single-day loss of emergency responders in U.S. history
- Over 370 firefighters have died from 9/11-related illnesses since the attacks
- Nearly 17,000 first responders currently suffer from 9/11-linked diseases
Honoring the Fallen Heroes
The firefighting community is mourning the loss of two more of its own to the lingering effects of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Thomas Dunn, 52, a former member of Engine Company 234 in Brooklyn, succumbed to a World Trade Center-related illness on February 1, 2025. Just two days earlier, retired Battalion Chief Dennis J. Collopy, 84, also passed away from similar health complications.
These recent deaths underscore the ongoing health crisis facing 9/11 first responders, with hundreds having died in the years following the attacks and thousands more currently battling serious illnesses. The bravery and sacrifice of these individuals continue to be felt more than two decades after that fateful day.
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Thomas Dunn’s dedication to his city and fellow citizens was evident throughout his career. The Uniformed Firefighters Association paid tribute to his service, stating, “FF Dunn served our great department with honor and dedication for 7 years; answering the call when his city needed him most.”
Dennis J. Collopy’s long and distinguished career spanned 36 years with the FDNY. His service extended beyond the fire department, as he was also a U.S. Army veteran. The Uniformed Firefighters Association recognized Collopy’s contributions, particularly during the aftermath of 9/11.
“We thank Battalion Chief Dennis J. Collopy for his years of service, and especially for his dedicated efforts during the rescue and recovery at Ground Zero,” the Uniformed Firefighters Association said.
The Ongoing Health Crisis
The deaths of Dunn and Collopy are part of a larger, tragic pattern affecting first responders who worked at Ground Zero. On September 11, 2001, 343 firefighters lost their lives, marking the largest single-day loss of emergency responders in U.S. history. Since then, over 370 firefighters have died from illnesses related to their exposure at the World Trade Center site.
The health crisis extends far beyond the firefighting community. Nearly 17,000 first responders are currently suffering from cancer or other diseases linked to their work at Ground Zero. These illnesses, which can take years to manifest, serve as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of that tragic day and the ongoing sacrifices made by those who answered the call of duty.