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New Details Revealed In Fiery Parkway Crash That Killed Westchester Firefighter

New details are being unveiled about a fiery crash on the Taconic State Parkway in the Hudson Valley that claimed the life of a beloved Army veteran and longtime Westchester firefighter.

Fishkill resident and beloved former firefighter Michael Fitzgerald, age 58, was killed in a crash on the Taconic State Parkway in Putnam Valley just south of Route 301. 

Fishkill resident and beloved former firefighter Michael Fitzgerald, age 58, was killed in a crash on the Taconic State Parkway in Putnam Valley just south of Route 301. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps street view/McHoul Funeral Home, Inc.

The crash, which killed 58-year-old Dutchess County resident Michael Fitzgerald of Fishkill, occurred at approximately 11:50 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27, just south of Route 301 in the Putnam County town of Putnam Valley, according to the New York State Police.

An initial investigation revealed that Fitzgerald had been driving a 2017 Toyota Rav4 southbound when the vehicle left the parkway for unknown reasons. The car then struck a rock embankment and became fully engulfed in flames, police said. 

Fitzgerald was pronounced deceased at the scene by members of the Putnam Valley Fire Department and Empress EMS paramedics, authorities said. 

Fitzgerald’s death sent shockwaves through his community as he was remembered for his decades of service as a firefighter and his dedication to his family and friends.

A resident of Fishkill who was born in Yonkers, Fitzgerald spent 26 years with the City of White Plains Fire Department, according to his obituary and department officials. He was also an Army veteran who was known for his humor, kindness, and larger-than-life personality. 

Calling hours were held on Monday, Dec. 2, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., located at 895 Route 82 in Hopewell Junction. A Mass of Christian Burial also took place on Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 11:30 a.m., at St. Columba Church, located at 835 Route 82 in Hopewell Junction.

The New York State Police confirmed that the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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