Village of Hastings-on-Hudson Alerts
Hastings-on-Hudson Police, Fire & EMS Statement on February 7, 2025 Car Fire and Related Casualty
Last evening at around 5:45 PM, there was a report of a car fire located in the municipal lot with the driver trapped.
Hastings Police Patrol Officers and Hastings Fire Chiefs found a vehicle fully engulfed in the northwest corner of the parking lot, in between bushes and the fencing. Witnesses confirmed someone was still in the vehicle.
At great risk to themselves, Police Officers Fattorini, Aliotta and Fasano attempted to extinguish the flames, gain access to the car, and remove the trapped individual. Fire Chiefs Schnibbe, Gunther, Lindner and DeSouza arrived seconds later to continue efforts with firefighting gear. Unfortunately, efforts were not successful because the fire, fueled by surrounding brush and westerly wind from the river, was too intense, barring rescuers from getting close enough to access the vehicle. The fire was immediately extinguished when fire apparatus arrived on scene with enough water to battle the blaze. The person in the car lost their life and we sincerely extend our condolences for this sorrowful outcome.
The investigation to the cause of this tragic event is ongoing and being handled by the Hastings Police Detective Division.
The police and first arriving fire members as always, gave their best effort to save this life. In the aftermath of this tragedy in our hometown, we acknowledge their selflessness and are sorry that despite best efforts a life was lost.
Many residents have reached out to check on Police and Fire Department personnel and we thank you for your continued support.
Police, Fire & EMS will be joining together in the coming weeks to review the operation and outcome with the Westchester County Emergency Services Critical Incident Stress Management Team, along with Guardian Revival Support Group.
David Dosin
Police Chief
Hastings on Hudson Police Department
Brian Schnibbe
Fire Chief
Hastings on Hudson Fire Department
