Three Irish-Americans, all New York firefighters, died on Monday when a hardware shop on Astoria Boulevard exploded. More than 50 people were injured, reports Patrick Smyth, Washington Correspondent.
Mr John Downing (40), whose family came from Kerry, an 11-year veteran of the force, Mr Brian Fahey (46), with 14 years service, and Mr Harry Ford (50), a 27year veteran cited 10 times for bravery, were killed.
Each leaves a wife and three children.