Police/Fire/EMS

Piermont Fire Department Responds to Tesla Fire on Route 9W, Two Hospitalized

Published

6 months ago

October 16, 2025

PIERMONT, NY – The Piermont Fire Department (PFD) responded earlier today to a reported vehicle fire involving an electric car in the area of 766 Route 9W. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed a working fire in a Tesla vehicle, prompting an extended and coordinated firefighting effort.

PFD units 13-1001 and 13-Squad responded to the scene with 10 members. Command was established within minutes, and the crew from 13-1001 secured a nearby hydrant in front of Hawk’s Nest, deploying two 1-3/4” hose lines to attack the blaze. Simultaneously, the Squad crew stretched a 2-1/2” hose line equipped with a water curtain nozzle to cool the underside of the electric vehicle, where battery packs pose a persistent fire hazard.

Firefighters worked for approximately 3.5 hours to bring the fire under control and ensure that the remaining battery components were fully cooled. This type of vehicle fire, particularly involving high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, requires extended operations and specialized tactics due to the risk of re-ignition.

Two occupants of the vehicle were transported in stable condition to Nyack Hospital by Piermont and South Orangetown EMS.

Piermont Fire Department praised the coordinated effort of all responding members and supporting EMS crews. The incident highlights the evolving challenges of electric vehicle fires and the specialized response they require.

Police/Fire/EMS

Suffern Police Check ATMs for Skimmers, Report No Threats Detected

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Suffern Police Department Detective Bureau, in partnership with the Rockland County Intelligence Center, recently conducted a proactive sweep of 35 local businesses to check for ATM and credit card skimming devices. No devices were detected.

Skimming devices are illegal tools used by criminals to capture payment card information during legitimate transactions—often without the victim’s knowledge. This stolen data can then be used to commit fraud and identity theft.

Proactive enforcement efforts like this play a critical role in safeguarding the community by preventing financial crimes before they occur and protecting both residents and local businesses. The Suffern Police Department remains committed to staying ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the continued safety and security of the community.

Police/Fire/EMS

Clarkstown Appoints James S. Fay Jr. as New Police Chief, Effective April 2026

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

New City, NY — Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board have appointed Capt. James S. Fay, Jr. as the next Chief of Police for the Town of Clarkstown, effective April 24, 2026.

He will succeed Jeffrey Wanamaker, who is retiring after an impressive 39-year career with the Clarkstown Police Department, including serving as Chief since 2021. The Town plans to formally recognize Wanamaker’s service later this month.

About Incoming Chief James S. Fay, Jr.

Capt. Fay brings 32 years of experience within the Clarkstown Police Department, with a career spanning both operational and administrative leadership:

Specialized Units & Investigations
- Narcotics and organized crime investigations
- Investigator with the Rockland County Narcotics Task Force
- Established and led the Street Crime Unit
- Served in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, handling sensitive cases involving children and family court
Emergency & Tactical Experience
- Over a decade with the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT)
- First responder at the September 11 terrorist attacks
Leadership Roles
- Supervised patrol operations and field training
- Oversaw Special Operations (K-9, Traffic, Anti-Crime)
- Currently serves as Operations Captain, overseeing Patrol, Detectives, and Special Operations
Labor & Community Involvement
- Former executive leader in the Police Benevolent Association
- Founding member of the Greater Nanuet Chamber of Commerce Board
- Graduate of Leadership Rockland

Supervisor Hoehmann praised both leaders, expressing gratitude to Chief Wanamaker for his decades of service and confidence in Fay as a “true public servant” committed to the department and community.