Coroner thanks responding agencies for work at fatal fire

Editor:

On Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, the tragic death of Francis “Franny” Nayman shocked and stunned the community in which he lived and worked. Fran has been a fixture in Orleans County knowing virtually everyone and operating his small engine repair shop, Nayman’s, since 1959.

Even after is stroke and heart-related problems to follow, Fran still continued to work and continued his passion for politics and remaining active in the community where he spent his entire life. He loved his community, the people in it and truly enjoyed socializing.

When the 911 call was dispatched to his shop, needless to say many if not all the responders knew Franny. Putting personal feelings aside, responders executed their fire attack, performed their investigative duties, and ultimately deduced a scenario as to how the events of this tragic accident occurred. Having held the Office of Coroner since 1990, it has been an honor to work with some of the finest and bravest Fire and EMS Personnel, some of the most intelligent Law Enforcement Officials, some of the most talented Emergency Dispatchers and some of the sharpest Forensic ID Technicians on the planet.

At every scene, this one in particular, all egos were checked at the door and all minds, eyes and ears were open and in tune with each other for ultimately deciphering what happened. It was an honor and a privilege for me to not only watch, listen and learn in this process but to also participate with them.

Thus this public “Thank You” to all involved for doing your job with the excellence and professionalism it commands and for showing utmost dignity and respect for the deceased remains of our friend Fran.

Thank You to Albion Fire Department/Fire Police and Chief Rocky Sidari and Jeremy Graham, Albion Police Department and Chief Roland Nenni, Orleans County Emergency Coordinators/Fire Investigators, NY State Fire Investigators, NY State Police Forensic ID Unit and Sr. Investigator Bob Bochorski with Chris Iwankow, Joshua Mitchell from Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, the Monroe County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Nadia Granger as well as all the other assisting Fire Department and agencies which responded to the incident.

Our Communities are so blessed and I have been so fortunate over the last 24 years to have worked with these fine individuals. May God bless you in your continued efforts to protect us and keep us safe for years to come.

With my Gratitude,

Scott M. Schmidt, CFSP
Chief Coroner, Orleans County