9/11 ferry boat hero dies from likely asbestos related cancer

Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by

45 year old’s death from cancer being attributed to asbestos exposure

In the years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York on September 11, 2001, thousands who were there have since died of mesothelioma and other asbestos related cancer.

45-year-old ferry boat captain, Thomas Phelan, has been the latest victim.

He was hailed a hero on the day of the attacks after he successfully evacuated hundreds of people from the affected area.

It isn’t currently unknown whether or not he had mesothelioma or some other form of asbestos related cancer.

However, his cause of death is being attributed to exposure to the toxic materials, asbestos included, that became airborne that day once the twin towers fell.

It’s a well known fact that asbestos was used extensively as a building material throughout the World Trade Centers structure.

Once the buildings collapsed, the asbestos dust lingered for many days in the city.

 

Lots of other 911 1st responders also affected

Consequently, many first responders were covered from head to toe in the dust, and it’s mainly these people that have gone on to develop asbestos related diseases and cancer.

Many other people present on 9/11 were also affected such as office workers.

Thomas Phelan will always be remembered for the significant role he played on that day.

He was a captain on board one of the Circle Line Statue of Liberty ferry cruises, and he ferried 100’s of people from Lower Manhattan over to safety in New Jersey.

He played a key role in what’s been described as the largest evacuation in city history.

It was just two years later in 2003 that he joined the New York Fire Department and was eventually promoted to Marine Pilot.

His death from asbestos related cancer brings a great sense of sadness to many who remember him.

Source of article:-  https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-news/911-ferry-boat-hero-dies-of-cancer/


Whether you need an asbestos management survey, or a refurbishment/ demolition survey, contact us on 0161 763 3727 or by visiting https://www.armco.org.uk/

Finally, for all your asbestos training needs call 0161 761 4424 or visit https://www.armcoasbestostraining.co.uk/to book an asbestos awareness training course.

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Published Apr 16, 2018