'Dark Day' As Former LI Fire Captain, 38, Dies At Fundraising Event

ISLAND PARK, NY — A gathering of firefighters at a fundraising event on Sunday afternoon turned tragic when former Island Park Fire Department captain Michael Fischer died from a medical emergency, the department posted to Facebook.

"This is a dark day in our storied history," Chief Donny Cardineau said in a statement.

The volunteer department said Fischer, 38, died after a training session earlier in the day.

"He was a good firefighter, solid leader and better friend," Town of Hempstead Councilman Anthony D'Esposito told Patch. "He will be missed by our department and community."

D'Esposito was at Peter's Clam Bar along with Fischer and many other firefighters for their annual clam-eating charity event when Fischer suffered an apparent heart attack, Newsday reported.

Medics tried to revive Fischer for 25 minutes but could not regain a pulse, Newsday said.

"Mike was a kind and gentle soul who always had a smile and warm conversation anytime we saw him and was an active member and good firefighter who will be sorely missed," Oceanside's Terrace Hose and Chemical Company #3 posted to Facebook.

Known affectionately as "Fish," Fischer was a lifelong Island Park resident, who graduated from West Hempstead High School and attended Nassau Community College. He worked for the Nassau County Department of Public Works.

Funeral arrangements are pending.