Obituaries
Burlington Native 9/11 Responder Dies Of 9/11-Related Cancer
Ryan Fortini, 42, was part of search and rescue after 9/11, with NY State Police. He died Wednesday from cancer stemming from that work.
BURLINGTON, MA — A 9/11 responder from Burlington passed away on New Year's Day from cancer stemming from his 9/11 search and recovery work. Former New York State Police Investigator Ryan Fortini, 42, a Burlington native, died Wednesday, the New York State Police announced. According to his family, he had become ill with cancer related to his 9/11 work.
"During his more than 15 years of service, Investigator Fortini was assigned to Troop K and then, Community Narcotics Enforcement Team in the Hudson Valley," according to the state police release. "Fortini entered into retirement from the New York State Police after 16 years of service on July 15, 2015, because of his worsening illness."
Fortini "was a true hero and always considered Burlington his hometown," according to his sister Joy Wilson.
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Fortini grew up and went to high school in Burlington, and his parents are still residents.
Fortini is survived by his fiancée, parents, brother and sister.
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Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.
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