Firefighters rescue 89-year-old Korean War veteran in Bay Ridge fire
Around 3:30 p.m., firefighters rushed into the apartment of Richard “Richie” Martin, an 89-year-old Korean War veteran, pulling him out of the flames. In the process, one firefighter was hurt. Martin is in critical condition.
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A fire in Bay Ridge Saturday left neighbors shaken – but also brought the community together.
Around 3:30 p.m., firefighters rushed into the apartment of Richard “Richie” Martin, an 89-year-old Korean War veteran, pulling him out of the flames. In the process, one firefighter was hurt. Martin is in critical condition.
RELATED: 1 firefighter, 1 tenant injured in Bay Ridge apartment building fire
Cleanup was underway there on Sunday. Crews in jumpsuits and masks worked through the heavy smoke smell, clearing debris and trying to restore some normalcy to the building. Buckets, gloves and supplies lined the sidewalk.
Neighbors say Martin was carried out through a window. Officials later confirmed his cat was found dead inside. For many, the memories of their neighbor are what make this fire so personal.
On Facebook, people described him as an animal lover and a friend to anyone who stopped to chat.
“Richie, you’re a good guy. You’re great for the community, and I hope you stay safe and recover quickly,” one young neighbor said.
