Police/Fire/EMS

North Rockland Emergency Services Conduct Large-Scale Train Derailment Drill in Haverstraw

Published

1 year ago

June 24, 2025

Haverstraw, NY — On Sunday, June 22, volunteer firefighters and multiple emergency service agencies took part in a train derailment emergency response drill in the Villages of West Haverstraw and Haverstraw, simulating a real-world rail incident as part of an ongoing regional preparedness effort.

The exercise was organized by the North Rockland Emergency Rail Organization (NERO), a specialized task force formed to ensure readiness in the event of a rail-related emergency in Rockland County. The full-scale drill tested coordination, communication, and tactical response among first responders, fire departments, EMS, law enforcement, and supporting agencies.

The simulation included staged scenarios that mimicked real-life derailment conditions—complete with mock casualties, emergency triage areas, and containment procedures—offering a valuable hands-on experience for participants.

Agencies participating in the exercise included:

The West Haverstraw Volunteer Fire Department
The Haverstraw Volunteer Fire Department
The Thiells Volunteer Fire Department
Chris Jensen and the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services
The Town of Haverstraw Police Department
Mayor Robert D’Amelio and the Village of West Haverstraw Board
Mayor Michael Kohut and the Village of Haverstraw Board
Supervisor Howard Phillips and the Town of Haverstraw Board
Sheriff Louis Falco and The Rockland County Sheriff’s Department
The Haverstraw Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
WHFD Firefighter Joe DeLucia
The Rockland County Volunteer Hazardous Materials Team
RC Volunteer Deputy Fire Coordinators & Chiefs – Thomas McKiernan, Michael Yannazzone Jr., Patrick Pasculo, & Bobby LaGrow
The Rockland County Volunteer Fire Police Officers Association
Veolia Water Company
Orange and Rockland Utilities
CSX Transportation Inc.
Rockland County Legislator Paul Cleary
West Haverstraw DPW Superintendent Anthony Sparta and his staff

NERO and local officials extended their sincere thanks to the residents and businesses of West Haverstraw and Haverstraw for their patience and cooperation during the drill. The exercise did temporarily impact local traffic and noise levels, but residents overwhelmingly supported the initiative, recognizing the importance of proactive preparedness.

This event underscores the ongoing commitment of North Rockland emergency service agencies to mitigate disasters and respond quickly and effectively when real emergencies strike.

Police/Fire/EMS

Nanuet Fire Department Seeks New Volunteer Firefighters

Published

1 day ago

July 25, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The volunteer firefighters of the Nanuet Fire Department are always ready to answer the call, leaving work, family gatherings, and daily routines behind to respond whenever the community needs them. Their dedication and commitment help keep Nanuet safe 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

As the department continues its mission of serving the community, it is actively seeking new volunteers to join its ranks. Residents who have ever considered giving back to their community are encouraged to learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter. No prior experience is necessary, as the department provides training, equipment, and ongoing support.

Volunteering with the Nanuet Fire Department offers the opportunity to develop valuable skills, build lasting friendships, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of neighbors when they need it most.

The Nanuet Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to its current volunteer firefighters for their selfless service and unwavering dedication. Their commitment strengthens the department and makes the entire community safer.

Nanuet is stronger because of you.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying E-Bike Riders

Published

1 week ago

July 17, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Ramapo Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying two individuals who allegedly fled from an officer after riding e-bike motorcycles recklessly along Route 59 and Campbell Avenue on Wednesday afternoon.

According to police, the incident occurred on July 16, 2026, at approximately 3:54 p.m., when a Ramapo police officer was traveling eastbound on Route 59 near 7-Eleven. As the officer safely moved to the right to allow a Faist EMS ambulance responding to a medical emergency to pass, two e-bike riders allegedly passed the patrol vehicle on the right, blocking the officer’s maneuver.

Police said the riders continued operating their e-bikes dangerously as they traveled onto Campbell Avenue, with one rider allegedly crossing over the double-yellow lines into oncoming traffic.

When the officer attempted to stop the riders after they turned into the Bon Aire neighborhood, police said they fled south on Bon Aire Circle into the Village of Suffern. The officer did not pursue them out of concern for the safety of the public and the riders.

The Ramapo Police Department is asking anyone who recognizes the individuals shown in photographs released by the department or who has information that could help identify them to contact the Ramapo Police Department at (845) 357-2400.

Police said community assistance is essential in helping hold those responsible for dangerous behavior on local roadways accountable.