Police/Fire/EMS

Orangetown Police Officers Rescue 3 Trapped Victims in Nyack House Fire

Published

9 months ago

July 27, 2025

Nyack, NY — At approximately 3:15 a.m. on Sunday, multiple fire departments responded to a working structure fire at 27 Summit Avenue in Nyack, following reports of people trapped inside the residence. Thanks to the swift and courageous actions of three Orangetown Police officers, three victims were successfully rescued from the burning building.

Two officers entered the structure and safely evacuated two tenants from the first floor. A third officer made his way to the second floor, where he located another trapped individual and was able to bring that person to safety.

One victim was transported to Westchester Medical Center, while the other two were taken to Nyack Hospital. All three police officers involved in the rescue were also treated at a local hospital for smoke inhalation.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Rockland County Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) responded to the scene to assist.

Due to the bravery and quick response of the Orangetown Police Department, a potential tragedy was averted. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the first responders who acted with courage and professionalism in the face of danger.

Photo credit: Rockland Buff

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.