HANCOCK, N.Y. — An assistant chief with the East Branch Fire Department was killed in the line of duty after being electrocuted at the scene of a crash in Hancock, according to New York State Police.
Assistant Chief Jason McGlone, 51, was among the firefighters responding to a call just after 9:30 p.m. on July 17 on state Highway 30, where a pickup truck had left the roadway, struck a guardrail and hit a utility pole, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin reports. Police said during the investigation, troopers found a low-hanging electrical wire draped across the roof of the fire truck.
Police said McGlone was electrocuted when he exited the truck and touched the metal door and the ground. He died at the scene.
McGlone had served with the East Branch Fire Department for 25 years, including 15 years as assistant chief. Earlier in 2025, he was recognized for his decades of dedication at the department’s annual awards dinner.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement praising McGlone’s service and sacrifice, saying he “embodied the courage, commitment and selflessness that define New York’s volunteer firefighters.”
Hochul added, “He represented the very best of what New Yorkers give to their communities in the name of public safety. My heart is with his loved ones, his fellow firefighters and the entire East Branch community during this difficult time.”
New York State Senator Peter Oberacker also shared his support for the McGlone family and the department, stating, “His service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
Funeral arrangements for McGlone are pending, according to the East Branch Fire Department.
State Police identified the driver of the pickup as Joseph Bellows, 54, of Downsville. Bellows was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital for treatment of injuries. He was later charged with driving while intoxicated and issued appearance tickets for Hancock Town Court.
The investigation into McGlone’s death is ongoing.
