‘One of our best’: Veteran Boston firefighter killed battling 3-alarm blaze in Dorchester

BOSTON — A 24-year veteran of the Boston Fire Department was killed while battling a three-alarm fire in Dorchester last night.

Robert Kilduff Jr. fell from a third-floor window of a home on Treadway Road.

Rodney Marshall said firefighters responded to a call reporting a fire on Treadway Road and encountered heavy flames extending into the attic.

During efforts to extinguish the fire, Kilduff Jr., a member of Rescue 2, fell from the third-floor window. Despite the best efforts of firefighters, EMS personnel, and crews on scene, he succumbed to his injuries.

He is survived by an adult daughter and son. Kilduff was also a member of Boston Firefighters Local 718, the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts.

“Boston lost a hero tonight,” said Michelle Wu. “Firefighter Robert Kilduff Jr. came from a family of firefighters, and he held this calling as the highest duty to serve and protect.

“Because of his actions tonight, working alongside his fellow firefighters, every single resident came out of the flames safe and sound.”

“He was our friend, our brother, and a dedicated family member,” said Sam Dillon.

“We ask the entire city to stand with us and to stand with the Kilduffs, in memory of Bobby, who laid down his life for this city and for his brother and sister firefighters.”

“Every day we put on this uniform, we know in the back of our minds that something like this is a possibility, but for it to actually happen to someone that you work with and actually know is something that you can’t put into words,” said Marshall.

“You’re never truly safe until you’re home. And Bobby is home now, with God.”

Five people were displaced by the fire. The cause remains under investigation. A dignified transfer was held overnight as Kilduff’s body was transported to the medical examiner’s office.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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