Flags to fly at half-staff for Easton firefighter

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Hundreds of firefighters are expected to gather in Easton Saturday for a memorial service for a volunteer firefighter killed during Monday's storm.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy directed flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Lt. Russell Neary, who was president of the Easton Volunteer Fire Company.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Lt. Neary's family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this terrible time," Malloy said. "Connecticut's first responders put themselves in harm's way every single day, and we are deeply grateful for their work and the sacrifices they make on behalf of the state."

Neary was clearing tree debris from a roadway when another tree fell on him.

Neary, who was 55, had served in the department for 10 years. He is survived by his wife, Maryanne and two daughters.

The memorial Mass is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church in Easton.

Neary was one of three Connecticut residents killed during the storm.

Ninety-year-old Olga Raymond of Mansfield also was killed by a falling tree. Thirty-four-year-old Brain Banunas of Milford died after jumping from a pier into Long Island Sound.