Brooklyn, NY – Just hours after his death, Williamsburg residents are joining with the FDNY to mourn the death of one of New York’s bravest, who was honored 12 days ago for the part he played in saving the life of a seven year old Chasidic boy in May.
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Lieutenant Gordon Ambelas died last night after sustaining life threatening injuries in a two alarm fire at 75 Wilson Street as previously reported on VIN News.
Ambelas was searching for trapped occupants on the 19th floor of the high rise building when he was trapped by a flash fire in a bedroom. Ambelas, who was found by fellow firefighters, was transported to Woodhull Medical Center where he later died.
“I was shocked and saddened to hear of his death,” Mrs. Yachet Gottlieb, whose son Mendy was rescued by several firefighters, including Ambelas, after he became entrapped in a roll up gate on Skillman Street on May 8th. “He was a person who gave his life for others, sacrificed for others.”
The Gottlieb family honored several members of the FDNY, including Ambelas on June 26th for their efforts in saving their son, presenting plaques to presented to Rescue Company 2, Ladder 119 and Ladder 211. Ambelas accepted the plaque from the Gottlieb family on behalf of Ladder 119.
“This was someone I know and this really hit me,” said Mrs. Gottlieb. “I hope his family finds solace in that so many lives have been saved because of him. He was a true hero.”
Ambelas, a married father of two who lived on Staten Island, had been with the FDNY for fourteen years and had previously worked for the United States Postal System. Ambelas served as a firefighter in Staten Island, Manhattan and Brooklyn and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant last September.
“He spent years doing community service,” noted FDNY spokesperson Michael Parrella. “He was doing his job, doing what every fire officer does: trying to protect life and property. He was a family man and this really hits home on every level. This is a great loss.”
Rabbi David Niederman of the United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg had the opportunity to meet Ambelas when he was honored last month.
“He was very modest and didn’t want to admit that he had done something special, only accepting the honor on behalf of all his colleagues,” said Rabbi Niederman. “I feel very sad that such a wonderful person met his death in the line of duty. While it is extremely difficult for everyone, especially the family, I hope that all of us find comfort in the noble, heroic work that he did saving the lines of New York City citizens. May his memory be a blessing.”
In a statement released by City Hall last night Mayor de Blasio described Ambelas’ death as “a tragic loss.” and he called on all New Yorkers to keep Ambelas and his family in their prayers adding, “We have lost a real hero tonight, and our hearts are heavy.”
Members of the FDNY gathered at 26 Hooper Street this morning in Williamsburg to drape the ceremonial purple and black buntings of mourning at Ladder 119 in memory of Lieutenant Ambelas.
A statement released by Councilman Stephen Levin called Ambelas “a true New York hero.
“Lieutenant Ambelas’ work was dedicated to keeping the people of our city safe and saving New Yorkers from the most dangerous of situations. He consistently helped the people in our community when they needed it most and his loss is tragic. New Yorkers throughout our city mourn his loss and are grateful for his efforts and those of our Fire Department.”
Funeral arrangements for the fallen firefighter have yet to be announced.
Below video Lieutenant Gordon Ambelas was honored on June 26, 2014 for saving Williamsburg Chasidic Boy.
Wow very sad I’m sure the yiddish oilom will go to the funeral to pay tribute
Fair to say he completed his tafkid on this world, and he had the zchus to die like a hero.
Soo sad! God bless his incredible soul.