Newsroom

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 29, 2022

DC 37 statement on passing of Local 3621 EMS Officer

NEW YORK— District Council 37 issues the following statements in response to the fatal stabbing of FDNY EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo while on duty in Queens this afternoon:

“Lt. Russo was a beautiful person who loved her family and served this city well,” said Vincent Variale, president of Uniformed EMS Officers Union Local 3621. “This horrendous act demonstrates that EMS officers take on the same risks as other first responders and don’t receive the same recognition for their labor. EMS officers do not get breaks—they are on call to help save lives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are the only first responders who respond alone. There is no driver, no partner, no aide, just a steadfast commitment to save the public when in need.”

“We mourn the passing of our union sister and honor her service and bravery in providing emergency care for the community,” said Henry Garrido, executive director of District Council 37. “Our members take on very difficult jobs in the name of public service that all too often place them in harm’s way during the line of duty. My deepest condolences to Lt. Russo’s loved ones and the entire Local 3621 family on this tragic loss.”