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Firefighter Michael R. Davidson, 37, a 15-year veteran, was killed, and two others firefighters were injured, the FDNY said.
Iona, which Davidson attended from 1999 to 2001, said on Twitter "We are saddened about the news of the tragic death of former Iona student and FDNY firefighter Michael Davidson. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time."
The blaze broke out on the set of "Motherless Brooklyn," a movie directed by Edward Norton, in the cellar of a building on St. Nicolas Avenue about 11 p.m. Thursday, FDNY officials said.
According to CBS News, Norton and the production company issued a statement Friday: "To our great sorrow, we now know that a NYC firefighter lost his life battling the blaze that grew, and our hearts ache in solidarity with his family. New York City firefighters truly are the bravest in the world. We watched firsthand with astonishment as they charged into the smoke to make sure all were safely out and then fought to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading, putting their lives on the line as they do every day. The FDNY are real-life super-heroes and have our boundless admiration and gratitude."
The Department said in a statement that Davidson was cited for bravery on four separate occasions, "He is the 1,150th member to make the Supreme Sacrifice while serving our city."
Davidson, who lived in Floral Park, Long Island, leaves behind a wife, Eileen, and four children. His father is a retired firefighter from the same firehouse, and his brother is a firefighter in the Bronx.
In a tweet, Mayor Bill de Blasio said “our city lost a hero.”
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