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Daily Freeman
PLATTEKILL, N.Y. — The two people who were found dead at a residence on Milton Turnpike were a former Plattekill Fire Department Chief and a former EMS captain at the department, according to Ulster County Executive and fire officials.
Ulster County Executive identified the two people who died Friday as James Brugger, 66, and Melinda Brugger, 54, in a press release on Sunday, Aug. 23.
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Also on Sunday, the Plattekill Fire Department stated that James “Jimmy” Brugger was a Past Department Chief and that Melinda “Mindy” Brugger was a Past EMS Captain.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of James and Melinda Brugger on their sudden passing,” Metzger said in a press release. “Both dedicated their lives to serving and protecting their communities, and their loss is felt deeply in Ulster County and across the region. We are keeping their family, colleagues, and fellow first responders in our thoughts during this difficult time.”
Metzger said the Bruggers’ deaths remain under investigation to “determine the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.”
Plattekill firefighters said no further information will be released at this time.
“Our hearts are broken,” firefighters said in the post. “We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to their entire family. May they find strength in each other and comfort in the love and memories shared by so many.”
“We respectfully ask that everyone allow the family the privacy and space to grieve as arrangements are made,” the department’s post added. “Rest easy, Jimmy and Mindy. You will never be forgotten.”
The Sheriff’s Office said in a news release that deputies, state police and Plattekill Police Department personnel responded to an address on Milton Turnpike at approximately 11:42 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, for a report of two unconscious people.
Upon the arrival of police and emergency medical services personnel, the release added that it was determined that both James and Mindy Brugger were dead.
Authorities said they currently have no reason to believe there is any threat to the public.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available, the release said.
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