Firefighter Cancer
03
Jul

NY CHIEF PASSES-Age 46, Maine FF Returns Home, FF Cocaine Death (The Secret List)

July 3, 2026
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All,

We, along with the Rockland County and New York fire service community, are mourning the passing of Chief Hugh (Chaim) Jacobson, a longtime member, past Chief of Department and current/active First Assistant Chief (“7-2”), the second-in-command of the Monsey FD’s Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1, He died following a tough battle with cancer at the age of 46. He leaves behind his wife, 4 kids, and a huge family, both personally and from his department family, along with countless friends.
Some of you will recognize Chief Jacobson as he was featured in a national webinar (link below) focused on retention and recruitment of Firefighters, both career and volunteer. His department has done several unique, outside-the-box innovations to maintain its success in turning out quickly with well-staffed, qualified Firefighters.

Chief Jacobson devoted nearly three decades of his life to the Monsey FD, joining the department approximately 28 years ago after being inspired by his late father, who was also a longtime member. He often spoke about his deep love for the Monsey community and his commitment to giving back through volunteer service, a value instilled in him by his father.

As a fire officer, Jacobson was known for his calm leadership, dedication to firefighter safety, and unwavering commitment to protecting residents. Chief Jacobson also took great pride in the diversity and unity within Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1, often noting how Firefighters from all backgrounds worked together as one family in service of the community.

We have posted a link to the memorial services below.

On a personal note, I was on the phone with some of his Firefighters/family last night, and we had planned for Chief Jacobson and me to FaceTime today — as I had only learned of his battle last week. He passed this morning. Once again, we are reminded how precious time is. Our condolences to all those impacted by this sad loss.
WATCH: FIREFIGHTER RETENTION & RECRUITMENT VIDEO: 
 
MEMORIAL DETAILS:
CRITICALLY BURNED MAINE FIREFIGHTER BEING RELEASED FOLLOWING EXPLOSION
Maine Firefighter Katherine “Katie” Paige was released from Maine Medical Center in Portland around noon today, Friday. Katie was very critically burned in that fire and explosion, however, and certainly thankfully, survived and is now heading home. She dealt with several surgeries and skin grafts, and faces more treatment, but is doing really well.
Check Out The Video:
NASHVILLE FIREFIGHTER ON-DUTY DEATH UPDATE
On March 17, Firefighter Wayne Barry, 56, was found unresponsive at Fire Station 32 on Andrew Jackson Parkway, where the 13-year veteran worked. Firefighter Barry was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Metro Nashville Police Department launched an investigation, and according to the medical examiner’s findings, the veteran’s cause of death was cocaine toxicity, and his death has been ruled accidental.
(PHOTO)
L-R Chief Jacobson (New York), FF Paige (Maine)
Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.
BillyG
The Secret List 7/3/2026-1330 Hours

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