Former Deputy Commissioner and 9/11 Rescue Leader Dies

The deputy commissioner and senior advisor in the Office of the Mayor has died of brain cancer. Ronald Cohen of Eltingville was known and widely appreciated for his role in leading rescue and recovery efforts in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Cohen was 47.

Cohen served as an instrumental figure following the tragic terrorist attacks. He worked tireless days at Ground Zero in the months following 9/11 until the rescue and recovery operations were shut down. Six years later he was diagnosed with brain cancer and his disease was linked to the time he spent exposed to dangerous toxins at the site. He received aggressive treatment and his disease went into remission. The disease came back this past April and he died November 25, 2014.

Cohen is one of countless heroes who have suffered serious and often fatal health issues following the attacks. The collapse of the Twin Towers released a dangerous and toxic cloud of dust that lingered at Ground Zero for weeks and even months. Workers who devoted their time to rescue and recovery operations have suffered catastrophic injuries and illnesses due to this exposure, with over a hundred rescue workers dying over the past several years. Their deaths have been linked to the work they did following the attacks.

To aid victims of these health issues, the federal government has established the Victim Compensation Fund that offers financial reimbursement for individuals who have had to foot medical bills and other expenses due to their exposure on 9/11. The attacks were over a decade ago, but first responders and others who were present at or near the site are still developing serious health problems as a result.

If you are suffering from a disease or illness related to your experience on or following 9/11, you may have legal options. Contact the skilled personal injury attorneys at Barasch, McGarry Salzman & Penson in New York.