Fire Chief’s Sudden Medical Emergency Turns Deadly at Conklin Fire

In the early hours of July 4, 2025, a call came in to the Broome County 911 Center reporting a house fire on JR Blvd in the Town of Conklin.

It was 2:53 in the morning when crews from Conklin, Five Mile Point, and Town of Binghamton fire departments were dispatched, along with Broome Ambulance. Kirkwood and Hallstead, Pennsylvania departments were placed on standby. What began as a standard fire response would end in heartbreaking tragedy.

Flames and a Fierce Response

When the first responders arrived, they were met with a home fully engulfed in heavy fire. A second alarm was issued immediately, calling in more firefighters from the surrounding area, including West Colesville, West Windsor, Kirkwood, and Hallstead. Crews worked quickly and tirelessly to knock back the flames, containing the fire in under an hour. Thankfully, all occupants made it out of the home, with only one person sustaining minor burns.

A Life Lost in the Line of Duty

Amidst the emergency response efforts, Fire Chief James Sitek of the West Colesville Fire Company suffered an apparent medical emergency at the scene. Emergency personnel rendered aid immediately and transported him to Wilson Hospital. According to the Broome County Office of Emergency Services, despite their best efforts, Sitek was pronounced deceased a short time later.

Honoring a Lifetime of Service

James Sitek, known to many as “Jim,” was no stranger to service. He dedicated 35 years of his life as a volunteer firefighter with the West Colesville Fire Company. He wore many hats throughout his time but most recently served as Fire Chief, a position he held with honor and humility for the past three years. His loss is deeply felt across the county and among the fire service family he called home.

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A Community in Mourning

The West Colesville Fire Company and the Broome County Office of Emergency Services have expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Chief Sitek. His commitment, bravery, and heart will not be forgotten.

As the investigation into the fire continues with assistance from the Broome County Fire Investigation Office, the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, the community pauses to grieve the loss of a man who lived to serve others.

More Than a Firefighter

James Sitek was more than a firefighter. He was a mentor, a respected leader, and a trusted friend. His legacy will endure in the lives he impacted and in the countless firefighters he helped shape throughout his 35 years of service.