Police/Fire/EMS

Massive Fire at Sterling Carting Building Contained After 12-Hour Response

Published

3 months ago

March 3, 2026

SLOATSBURG, NY — On Monday, March 2 at approximately 2:00 p.m., a large fire broke out at the Sterling Carting building on Sterling Mine Road.

The blaze burned for nearly 13 hours, from mid-afternoon until approximately 3:00 a.m. Tuesday. The Sloatsburg Fire Department, along with numerous neighboring departments, responded to the scene to battle the massive fire. Volunteer firefighters remained on site for more than 12 hours, working tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the situation under control.

Although the fire has been extinguished, residents may notice lingering haze and odor throughout the day.

The Village of Sloatsburg extended its gratitude to Chief Swanson and the members of the Sloatsburg Fire Department for their leadership and dedication. Officials also thanked the assisting fire departments, emergency responders, and those who stood by at the Sloatsburg Fire House to ensure full village coverage during the incident.

Assisting agencies included:

Hillburn Volunteer Fire Department
Suffern Volunteer Hose Co. #1
Suffern Hook & Ladder Co. #1
Monsey Fire Department
Tallman Volunteer Fire Department
New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1
Thiells Fire Department
South Spring Valley Fire Department
Mahwah Rescue
Tuxedo Park Fire Department Co. #1
Ramapo Fire Coordinators
Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps
Town of Ramapo Police Department
The Ladies Auxiliary of the Sloatsburg Fire Department

Village officials praised the professionalism and commitment of the volunteers who worked through the night to keep the community safe.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officers Help Free Bear Cub Trapped by Container in Hillburn

Published

21 hours ago

June 6, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

This afternoon, officers from the Ramapo Police Department responded to Brook Street in Hillburn after receiving a report of a bear cub with a container stuck on its head.

Upon arrival, officers worked alongside the concerned caller to safely remove the container, freeing the cub from what could have become a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Once released, the bear cub quickly ran off into the nearby woods unharmed.

The Ramapo Police Department appreciates the caller’s vigilance and willingness to assist. Quick reporting and community awareness can make a significant difference, not only for public safety but also for the welfare of local wildlife.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly disposing of containers and other waste that can pose hazards to animals. Thanks to the combined efforts of a concerned resident and responding officers, this young bear was able to safely return to its natural habitat.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Participate in Countywide Gun Buyback Initiative

Published

1 day ago

June 6, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Sheriff’s Office hosted a successful Gun Buyback Event, and the Ramapo Police Department was proud to participate in this collaborative community safety initiative alongside the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, the Spring Valley Police Department, and the New York State Police.

Together, agencies collected a total of 19 firearms, including 11 handguns, 3 assault rifles, and 5 long guns.

Every firearm voluntarily surrendered represents one less opportunity for a weapon to be lost, stolen, misused, or involved in a tragedy. Gun buyback programs play an important role in reducing the number of unwanted firearms in our communities and promoting public safety.

The Ramapo Police Department is proud to support these efforts and remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help build a safer community for all.