A New York volunteer firefighter who was killed in a crash is now continuing to save lives as an organ donor.
The collision that killed 24-year-old Zach Golley occurred on Thursday, Feb. 27, and involved a train, according to NBC affiliate WGRZ.
Zach was an assistant chief with the Ellicottville Volunteer Fire Department in Cattaraugus County, as noted on the department’s Facebook page.
His colleagues at the local fire department were among those who responded to the crash, WGRZ reported.
The dad of one was “surrounded by his family” when he died at the hospital on Saturday, March 1, “as a result of injuries sustained” in the crash, according to his obituary.
In a statement shared by the fire department, Zach’s parents, John and Debbie Golley, said their late son will be donating his heart, liver and kidneys to two people.
“I don’t have any words but appreciate everyone’s support,” they said. “I promise we have read the messages and felt all the Love.”
In addition to working with the Ellicottville Volunteer Fire Department, Zach was also “a valued member” of Ellicottville’s public works department, village officials said in a statement.
Zach was engaged to be married and shared a newborn daughter with his fiancée, according to his obituary.
He also had his own business called “Zach of All Trades,” where he did landscaping, plowing, moving, scrapping “and whatever odd jobs came calling his name.”
“Zach was distinguished by his warm smile and unwavering commitment to helping others,” fire officials said in a statement shared on Facebook. “We kindly request that you remember Zach, his loved ones, and the Golley family in your prayers as we collectively mourn this loss.”
They added, “Zach, your absence will be deeply felt❤️.”
The Ellicottville Police Department (EPD) also paid tribute to Zach on Facebook, describing him as “the embodiment of selflessness and heroism” who was “always going above and beyond in his service to others.”
His dedication and kindness, they added, “left an indelible mark on every member of the police department.”
“Zach touched each of our lives in a unique and meaningful way, and his presence will be deeply missed,” police said. “We are forever grateful for his contributions and the positive impact he made, not just in our department, but in the community he served with unwavering commitment.”
More than $53,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign started to support his family.
His funeral will be held on Friday, March 7, according to his obituary.
