Community Mourns Loss of Heroic New York Firefighter
NEW JERSEY – This Friday, the community and loved ones will gather to bid a final farewell to Mark Batista, a New York firefighter who tragically lost his life while attempting to save his daughter from drowning off a New Jersey beach last week.
A Heartbreaking Farewell
The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am in Fair Lawn, the same city where the funeral services for firefighter Mark Batista, who served in the FDNY, were held the day before. Batista’s family, friends, and co-workers came together in grief at a wake in Fair Lawn.
A Remarkable Man Remembered
“He was not only a great man but also a great father,” said Lidia Herrera, Batista’s aunt. “He was an excellent husband and a wonderful person, dedicated to his profession. He had a very humanitarian spirit.”
A Tragic Act of Heroism
Batista, a 39-year-old originally from the Dominican Republic, was enjoying a day at the beach in Avon, New Jersey with his family when he noticed his 15-year-old daughter struggling in the water. Without hesitation, he jumped in to save her. Although he managed to rescue his daughter, he tragically lost his own life in the process.
A Community United in Grief
The impact of Batista’s selfless act was felt not only in New Jersey but also in Brooklyn, where he served as a firefighter. The community that knew Batista continues to pay tribute to him by leaving wreaths in his honor, and they vow to always remember him as a unique and compassionate member of their community.
A Loss Felt by Many
“He was one of the kindest firefighters in this battalion,” said Cinthya Smith, a resident of Boerum Hill. “His passing is a tremendous loss for all of us.”
Ricardo Villarini reporting.
