Fire Lieutenant Dies After Attic Collapses During S.I. Blaze

A Fire Lieutenant who overcame severe burns two years ago to return to duty died Nov. 23 after the attic of a Staten Island house where he was battling a blaze collapsed on him, dislodging his mask and air supply.

ROBERT J. RYAN Jr. Lieut. Robert Ryan Jr., 46, was remembered by colleagues as a dedicated officer and diligent teacher of those who served with him, with his commander, Capt. Brian Gorman, describing him to the Daily News as "a fireman's fireman."

He led members of Engine Co. 155 into the burning building in the borough's New Brighton section early Sunday morning and was helping to stretch a hose line on the second floor of the house when the attic gave way.

A 17-year veteran of the FDNY who became a Lieutenant early in 2001 and was among the first responders to the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, Mr. Ryan two years ago was seriously injured fighting a fire in Brooklyn when plastic from a melting smoke detector fell onto his neck, causing severe burns. He underwent a painful year-long rehabilitation and, rather than accept a disability retirement, returned to his company last year.

"He had an impeccable career," said Uniformed Fire Officers Association President John J. McDonnell. "He was well-liked not only for his personality but his leadership ability as well."

Lieutenant Ryan is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his son, Christopher, 17; daughter Kayla, 12; stepson Alex, 10; and stepdaughter Emma, 8.

Funeral services will be held Nov. 26 at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Staten Island.