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Bruins honor fallen firefighter, foundation aids families of fallen first responders

BOSTON — Moments before the start of their game against the Arizona Coyotes Tuesday night, the Boston Bruins paid tribute to fallen Worcester firefighter Christopher Roy.

The 36-year-old Roy was killed iin the line of duty, while fighting a 5-alarm fire early Sunday morning on Lowell Street. His death has rattled the fire department and communities across the state.

"We paused to remember fallen Worcester firefighter Christopher Roy. A true hero," the Boston Bruins said in a tweet.

The moment of remembrance joined efforts by the Boston Bruins Foundation to assist the families of fallen first responders.

Earlier Tuesday, the foundation and Lawrence firefighters met as part of a mission to help families of firefighters and police officers.

Each year, the Bruins help raise awareness and hundreds of thousands of dollars at events, to go toward helping families of first responders killed in the line of duty.

Boston Bruins Foundation Director Bob Sweeney said the tragedy in Worcester only makes their mission more important.

"Words can't describe our sympathies and condolences for his daughter and everyone involved with his family," he said.

In response, the Bruins plan to hold a 50/50 raffle at Sunday's game, where the money will go toward helping the Roy family. Fans can purchase raffle tickets online by visiting Bruins5050.org and at Sunday's game.

Rich MacKinnon, president of the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts, said in times of tragedy, the local community is always there.

"The citizens of Massachusetts are always behind us as firefighters.  Not only in Worcester, but here in Lawrence and all across the Commonwealth," MacKinnon said.