February 23, 2026
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FROM THE BATH VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT:
On January 31, 2026, Bath Police Sergeant Beau Roberson, Bath Police Officer Waite, Steuben County Sheriff’s Deputy Ethan Hurd, New York State Police Trooper Daniel Empfield, Trooper Garrett Gaczewski, Trooper Anthony Kuhn, and Trooper Jack Curabba were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire on Warden Street in the Village of Bath.
Upon arrival, Sergeant Roberson and Officer Waite observed a two-story residence with flames visible from multiple windows and were informed that a subject was possibly trapped inside the residence.
Recognizing that time was critical, Sergeant Roberson and Officer Waite, without hesitation and with complete disregard for their own personal safety, entered the burning structure to search for the trapped individual. Working quickly alongside a civilian neighbor, Brayden Hess, they conducted a search of the residence, breaking down an interior door where they were able to locate the subject unconscious within the residence.
Deputy Hurd arrived on scene and without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, entered the structure to aid Sgt Roberson, Officer Waite, and the trapped individual. Deputy Hurd was able to drag the individual to the doorway of the residence where Troopers Empfield, Gaczewski, Kuhn and Curabba were able to carry the individual to an awaiting ambulance where aid was immediately rendered.
The victim was transported to a local hospital. Despite extensive life saving efforts, the victim later succumbed to his injuries.
The quick response, situational awareness, and effective teamwork displayed by each member of law enforcement on scene showed collective inter-agency cooperation and exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, bravery, and commitment to public service. The courage of civilian Brayden Hess, and his willingness to act in the face of danger played a vital role in the effort to save a human life.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victim.
