East Branch Fire Officer Dies In Line of Duty

HANCOCK – On July 17, 2025, at approximately 9:30 p.m., East Branch Fire Department Third Assistant Chief  Jason McGlone, 51, was responding in a rescue pumper to a report of a vehicle that had struck a utility pole on state Highway 30 in the town of Hancock. A preliminary investigation determined that a low-hanging electrical wire was in contact with the top of the fire truck. When Assistant Chief McGlone exited the vehicle and made contact with the metal door and the ground, he was electrocuted, according to a press release from state police.

Life-saving measures were performed at the scene but were unsuccessful. Assistant Chief McGlone was pronounced deceased.

The original crash involved a pickup truck operated by  Joseph E. Bellows, age 54, of Downsville according to the release. Bellows veered off the roadway, striking a guardrail and utility pole. He was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital for evaluation and treatment of injuries. Following an investigation, Bellows was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. He was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in Hancock Town Court on Sept.8,.   

The investigation into the firefighter’s death remains ongoing.

On July 18, Governor Kathy Hochul issued a statement on McGlone’s death: “Just weeks ago, we mourned the loss of one of New York’s bravest. Today, we grieve again over the loss of Assistant Chief Jason McGlone of the East Branch Fire Department, who tragically lost his life while responding to a motor vehicle accident.

“Chief McGlone’s 25 years of service within East Branch, including 15 years as an assistant chief, embodied the courage, commitment and selflessness that define New York’s volunteer firefighters. He represented the very best of what New Yorkers give to their communities in the name of public safety.

“My heart is with his loved ones, his fellow firefighters and the entire East Branch community during this difficult time,” she said.

The Delaware County Emergency Services Department also issued the following statement: The Delaware County Department of Emergency Services is deeply saddened by the death of East Branch Fire Department Assistant Chief Jason McGlone, killed in the line of duty.

The Delaware County Department of Emergency Services extend our deepest condolences to Assistant Chief McGlone’s family, friends and colleagues.

According to his obituary, McGlone leaves behind his wife of 21 years, CaroleAnn Gilmore McGlone, a daughter Addaleen McGlone and a son, Michael McGone, along with other relatives

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 26 from noon to 2 p.m. in the East Branch Fire Hall followed by a funeral and Firematic services at 2 p.m. at the fire hall.