NORTH HAVEN — A career firefighter died Thursday after working a 38-hour shift.

The North Haven Fire Department issued a statement Friday on the death of Anthony Desimone. The 50-year-old firefighter/EMT was a 23-year veteran of the department, and before joining the paid department, he was a volunteer firefighter with North End Volunteer Fire Company #4.

"Firefighter Desimone had just completed a 38 hour continuous shift in the fire station and was relieved from duty when he suffered a medical emergency as he arrived home," the department said in the statement. "Family members witnessed him collapse and immediately called 911. 

"Units from North Haven Fire, Police and Nelson Ambulance responded to provide medical care," the department said. "Firefighter Desimone was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he was pronounced dead after resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful."

"North Haven has suffered a loss of one of its most dedicated public servants," said state Rep. David Yaccarino. "I am dismayed by North Haven Firefighter Anthony Desimone’s passing and mourn his loss alongside his wife, children, and loved ones. 

"Anthony was a close friend of mine and an active community member in North Haven. In my 13 years serving North Haven, Anthony was an invaluable resource to me as a legislator and a proud representative of the public safety and fire service communities," Yaccarino said. "I cherish our fond memories together — from him leading me in CT Fire Operations training in 2014 to many visits to our State Capitol, most recently in June 2023 for Fire Service Day. My extended sympathy goes out to the Desimone family, the North Haven Fire Department, and all who knew Anthony. He will be truly loved and missed, but remembered for 23 years of unwavering service to North Haven."

"West Ridge Co. 3 and the West Ridge Volunteer Fire Association joins with the North Haven firefighters and staff at Headquarters in expressing our profound sadness at the passing yesterday evening of Firefighter, husband, and father, Anthony Desimone," the North Haven volunteer fire company posted on its Facebook page Friday. 

"Even though we know that this calling puts us in harm’s way, it somehow makes the loss all the more harder to bear. We extend our sincerest sympathies to Anthony’s family, friends, and all those who knew and cared for him."

Desimone is survived by his wife and his two children. He was active in the community, being involved with several civic organizations such as the Knights of Columbus and North Haven Little League, the department said.

Funeral arrangements are not yet finalized.

"We want to thank all of the area departments and businesses for their support during this very difficult time," the department said in the statement.

kramunni@record-journal.com