FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release #063-00
Tuesday, February 22, 2000
| Contact: | Sunny Mindel / Edward Skyler (212) 788-2958 |
Remarks By Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani At Public Hearing On Local Laws
The first bill before me today is Introductory Number 670, sponsored by Council Members Berman, Dear, Nelson, Golden and Oddo which would name the triangle at the intersection of Avenue S and East 33rd Street in Brooklyn, "Firefighter Christopher Bopp Memorial Triangle."
Christopher Michael Bopp was born on March 7, 1971 in the Marine Park section of Brooklyn. He was appointed to the New York City Fire Department on October 15, 1995 and began his career at Engine Company 170.
On December 18, 1998, after arriving at a fire at 17 Vandalia Avenue near Starrett City, Lieutenant Joseph P. Cavalieri and firefighters James F. Bohan and Christopher Bopp were killed when a gust of wind stirred up a fireball that swept down the hallway and engulfed the three men. They were trying to rescue a 67-year-old woman believed to be trapped in her apartment. Christopher Bopp is survived by his wife, Cori, and his daughter, Carli.
While this legislation only refers to Christopher Bopp, it is not meant to
overshadow the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters Bohan and Cavalieri. On
the contrary, it is simply because Christopher Bopp was the only firefighter
that lived in the district where this new sign would be posted. In fact, I understand
that Council Member Ognibene, in whose district firefighter Bohan lived, has
already set in motion a process to name a skating rink in his honor. I also
know that Nassau County, where
Mr. Cavalieri lived, has named a square after him.
Therefore, in view of Chistopher Bopp's bravery, devotion to duty and his ultimate
sacrifice for the people of the City of New York, it is fitting that the triangle
at the intersection of Avenue S and East 33rd Street be named "Firefighter
Christopher Bopp Memorial Triangle."
For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.
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