03/07/2025
Firemen Honored at City Council
Mechanicville February 12- Mayor Mike Butler honored member of the Mechanicville Fire Department for their life saving actions on the Hudson River on the night of January 10th. At 11:50 PM the Mechanicville Police were dispatched to the Hemstreet Park Bridge in response to a report of an individual in crisis.
Upon arrival they discovered the individual was seated on the edge of the bridge and then despite the efforts of the officers the individual jumped into the Hudson River.
Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Dunn and the team of volunteer firefighters from the Mechanicville Fire Department (MFD) were on standby and, responded by launching their rescue boat and reaching the individual .
Through their swift and coordinated efforts, Deputy Fire Chief Dunn, Firefighters Timothy Cuilla, Charlie Wheeler, Adam Wertman, Kyle Ropeter, and TJ Mellon successfully located and rescued the individual from the icy waters of the Hudson River, ultimately saving their life.
In the Proclamation Butler praised the firemen for the “highest standards of volunteerism, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to public safety, putting the lives of others before their own and demonstrating exceptional courage in a time of crisis; these heroic efforts were made by volunteer firefighters, individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to protecting and serving our community without monetary compensation.”
Butler concluded. “Their courage, skill, and swift response saved a life, and they embody the true spirit of volunteerism and service.”