Binghamton Park to Be Named in Memory of Firefighter JR Gaudet

John "J.R. Gaudet, the Binghamton firefighter who was killed in the line of duty, is expected to be honored when a city park is renamed in his memory.

Gaudet died after he was injured while battling a raging fire on Main Street nearly one year ago.

Legislation to name Binghamton's West End Park in Gaudet's honor is to be introduced to City Council next week.

The announcement of the plan to rename the park on the city's West Side came in a joint statement from Mayor Jared Kraham, Fire Chief Alan Gardiner and Professional Fire Fighters Local 729 president David Holleran.

According to the statement, the park "held special meaning for JR, who grew up practicing lacrosse there and later spent time playing with his three kids."

The statement indicated Gaudet's family offered "guidance on a fitting tribute."

Authorities last March announced 36-year-old Patrick Shea had been indicted on murder and arson counts in connection with the fire that resulted in Gaudet's death.

Investigators said Shea was taken into custody in Kirkwood one month after the blaze.

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A somber scene outside the Broome County Courthouse in downtown Binghamton on January 8, 2026.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.