New York State Honors Binghamton Firefighter John Gaudet

New Yorkers are continuing to express their condolences in the aftermath of the death of Binghamton firefighter John R. Gaudet.

The 11-year veteran member of the Binghamton Fire Department died as the result of a structure collapse in a blaze on Main Street Wednesday evening.

Firefighter John Gaudet. (Photo: Binghamton Fire Department)

The 40-year-old Gaudet died after he was injured at the scene of the raging fire in what was believed to be a vacant building next to the Chenango River.

In a statement released on Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul said she was "heartbroken by the tragic fire in Binghamton."

My prayers are with firefighter John Gaudet’s family, friends and all of the Binghamton Fire Department. His bravery and service will never be forgotten. I am also praying for a swift recovery for the two injured firefighters.

The two other city firefighters who were hurt were treated and Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City and released.

Smoke continued to rise from the scene of a deadly fire on Main Street in Binghamton on February 13, 2025. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Other elected officials and fire departments expressed sympathy following Gaudet's death.

The Binghamton Fire Department remembered Gaudet in this online message:

JR embodied what it means to be a firefighter—fearless, dedicated, and always putting others before himself. His infectious smile, unwavering positivity, and relentless work ethic made him a brother to all who had the honor of serving alongside him. He was the kind of firefighter you could always count on, the one who would have your back no matter the situation. At fires, he was a bull—always first in line to get inside. He would literally run through a wall for you. There was no one better to have by your side.

Beyond the firehouse, JR was deeply involved in our community. He was a dedicated coach to many youth sports teams in Binghamton, always eager to share his passion and lacrosse wisdom with young athletes. His impact reached far beyond his firefighting duties, touching the lives of so many in our city. JR’s loss is immeasurable. He leaves behind his loving wife and three young children. Please keep his family, friends, and fellow firefighters in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.

According to usalacrosse.com, Gaudet played lacrosse at Binghamton University for two years before he transferred to SUNY Cortland to play in 2007 and 2008. He was a varsity lacrosse coach for Seton Catholic Central in Binghamton from 2014 to 2016.

An excavator was used to remove debris from the scene of a fatal fire on Main Street in Binghamton. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Funeral arrangements were being finalized.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A demolition crew removed the two buildings heavily damaged by the blaze. The debris from the fire scene was cleared by late Thursday afternoon.

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A somber moment at Binghamton Fire Department headquarters on February 14, 2025.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

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.