Note: This is an ongoing story. Additional information will be added to this post over the course of Monday 11/18/2024.
HAVERSTRAW, N.Y. — A somber gathering took place at St. Peter’s Church on Monday as family, friends, coworkers, classmates, teammates and community members bid farewell to Dariel Vasquez, the 18-year-old New York State Parks aide who lost his life battling the Greenwood Lake wildfire. Dariel, remembered for his bravery and dedication, was killed by a falling tree during the early stages of the wildfire that originated in Jennings Creek – Sterling Forest, Greenwood Lake.
Flags across New York State were flown at half-staff on Monday, as directed by Governor Kathy Hochul, in honor of Vasquez’s sacrifice. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vasquez family as they mourn the sudden and tragic loss of Dariel,” Hochul stated. “Dariel was only 18 years old and had a truly bright future ahead of him that has now been unfairly taken away.”
A Hero’s Salute
This morning, St. Peter’s Church was filled with local fire departments, neighbors, and classmates who paid tribute to Vasquez during his funeral service. Giovanni Arache, a close friend, spoke about Dariel’s unique ability to uplift others. “Dariel always brought color to the room. No matter what you were going through, he could always make you laugh and smile.”
Dariel’s aunt, Erika DeJesus, reflected on his passion for his work. “He loved his job at the park’s department. He was the kind of person everyone could count on. It’s devastating that his life was cut short.”
A Life of Promise Cut Short
Dariel, a recent graduate of Ramapo High School, had only begun his role with the Parks Department this summer. He had been eagerly anticipating his future, with plans to attend SUNY Buffalo in 2025. Known for his warm spirit and vibrant energy, Dariel was described as “a sweetheart” by his cousin, Erika DeJesus. “He had so much potential. He was happy in his last moments,” DeJesus added.
During a vigil held at Ramapo High School’s baseball field on Nov 11, where Dariel once played, over 100 attendees lit candles, said prayers, and released balloons in his memory. His parents, Miosotis and Juan Vasquez, held a photo of their son as the community grieved alongside them.
The Battle Against the Greenwood Lake Fire is Not Complete
The Jennings Creek wildfire, which has ravaged over 5,000 acres across New York and New Jersey, continues to burn. Over the weekend, high winds caused the fire to reignite, leading to the voluntary evacuation of approximately 140 homes. Firefighters remain on the frontlines, awaiting relief from Mother Nature to extinguish the blaze. Overnight reports indicated that the fire is 90% contained, but weather conditions need to be right to prevent the possibility of reignition.
State Forest Ranger Bob Rogers emphasized the challenge of the terrain and the unpredictable nature of wildfires. “It’s safer to let the fire come to you than to climb this terrain. This fire is not going out anytime soon. Mother Nature will have to put the final lid on this one,” he said.
Remembering a Young Hero
In the words of Dariel’s cousin, Erika DeJesus, “He was just so young, with so much going for him. We will remember him as a hero who gave everything to protect others.”