New York City

NY Firefighter Dies From 9/11-Related Cancer

While he was still sick, Pfeifer was involved in lobbying to pass the Zadroga Act which, when passed in 2011, compensated victims who suffer from diseases due to exposure during recovery efforts

A retired New York City firefighter who was among the first responders in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack has died from cancer, according to the Uniformed Firefighters Association.

Ray Pfeifer, 59, had battled cancer for eight years related to working during 9/11, said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro.

While he was still sick, Pfeifer was involved in lobbying to get the Zadroga Act passed. The Zadroga Act was signed into law in 2011 and compensated victims who suffer from diseases due to exposure during recovery efforts.

Mayor Bill De Blasio presented Pfeifer with a key to the city in a City Hall ceremony last year.

"Even in his final act helping raise money for a wheelchair-accessible van to transport firefighters to and from hospital visits was selfless," said Uniformed Firefighters Association President Gerard Fitzgerald in a statement.

Pfeifer leaves behind a wife and two children. 

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