Thousands Turn Out in Owego to Honor Captain Porcari

The tiny village of Owego was crowded over the weekend as firefighters from around the region and from other states paid respects to fire department Captain Matthew Porcari.

The 34-year-old Porcari died last week of injuries sustained while fighting a town of Newark Valley house fire. Another firefighter, Lieutenant Daniel Gavin, was hurt while inside the burning structure with Porcari.

Calling hours for Porcari were held at the Owego Middle School Saturday. Funeral services were held at the school Sunday afternoon.

Firefighters from many volunteer and paid departments converged on Owego over the past few days to remember Porcari and to celebrate his life.

Signs showing support for Porcari and his fellow firefighters were on display at many businesses around Tioga County.