NYS Officials Cite Safety Violation In Death Of Long Island Firefighter

WOODMERE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- State officials investigating a Long Island firefighter's death say his department violated safety standards by letting him enter a burning home without an assigned partner.

Joseph Sanford Jr., 43, died in December, four days after sustaining injuries while battling a house fire in Woodmere.

The 17-year veteran fell through a hole in the floor after the fire burned up through the basement.

Four other firefighters entered the home with Sanford, but the safety bureau said none could account for his whereabouts after several minutes. He was later found in the basement under debris.

The state Labor Department's Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau cited the Inwood Fire Department with four violations.

Chief Gaetano Marino said the volunteer department will step up enforcement of training and safety rules.

Lawyer Christopher McGrath, who represents Sanford's widow, said Sanford wouldn't have worked without a partner.

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