BETHPAGE, NY — April 20th — The anniversary of Firefighter William Tolley of Ladder Company 3's line-of-duty death was commemorated by the Bethpage Fire Department. In 2017, Tolley perished at a fire while using the FDNY Ladder 135. During internal activities, Tolley fell from an upper story and died. The tragedy sparked continuous conversations about building conditions, accountability, and safety procedures at active fires throughout the fire department.

Departments still commemorate these anniversaries in remembrance of departed members and to acknowledge the dangers that firefighters endure. Tolley's contribution is still honored by the department and the community, according to Bethpage officials.