Thomas Dunn Obituary
Retired Firefighter of Engine 234 Thomas Dunn is reported dead. A first responder of the tragic 9/11, Thomas died at his home in Florida this morning, February 1, 2025, following a long battle from the WTC-related illness caused by exposure to toxic substances during the cleanup operations at Ground Zero.
The sad news was reported in a social media post made by an uncle named Vincent Dunn. He made the emotional post, which in part read: “MY NEPHEW THOMAS DUNN ENGINE 234 SURVIVED BOTH TOWER COLLAPSES ON 9-11; SPENT MONTHS DOWN ON THE PILE SEARCHING FOR VICTIMS; SINCE THEN SUFFERED YEARS WITH ASTHMA BREATHING PROBLEMS AND RECURRING SCALP INFECTIONS CAUSED BY FUMES AND SOOT OF THE SMOLDERING PILE RUBBLE; HE TOOK HIS OWN LIFE YESTERDAY AT 3PM. A GUNSHOT TO HIS HEAD. NEVER FORGET!”
Thomas Dunn’s death brings back to the spotlight the indelible marks 9/11 has left on so many faces of the first responders, with courage, who risked their lives that day. He survived the collapse of both towers, then spent months more searching for victims in the dangerous topography at Ground Zero. His health began to change as a consequence of exposure to toxic debris, and chronic respiratory troubles and constant infections ensued, though he bore them up for many years.
The Dunn family has already suffered a huge loss. The younger brother is Firefighter Jimmy Dunn with Ladder 114, and tragically, he died eight years ago; therefore, another hole was torn in their lives. The Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York paid tribute: “The UFA offers its most sincere condolences to the family of retired Firefighter Thomas Dunn of E234, who died from a WTC-related illness. Thomas served the FDNY with pride and distinction, answering the call when his city needed him most. His family has already made the ultimate sacrifice, as his brother, FF Jimmy Dunn of L114, passed away eight years ago. Please keep his dad and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. Funeral services will be private in Florida. NEVER FORGET.”
Born on December 9, 1972, Thomas Dunn gave his life to serving others. He was an enormously brave man who worked as hard as he could, doing his duty. Even in retirement, he bore the weight of his sacrifices and battled health troubles that would finally exact a terrible cost from him.
Dunn’s story brings back the reminder of the still-unresolved health crisis in which thousands of 9/11 first responders are caught. So many of them still suffer from diseases contracted due to their heroic efforts that day, with a very high need for further support and awareness.
Thomas Dunn’s legacy will live on, as the firefighting community gathers to mourn another fallen hero. His bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication will be forever etched in our minds. May he finally be at peace.
