Arrest Made in Connection to Death of Binghamton Firefighter

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BINGHAMTON, NY – March 14, 2025 – Authorities have announced an arrest in connection with the death of Binghamton firefighter John "JR" Gaudet, who was killed while battling a massive fire in downtown Binghamton last month.

According to Binghamton officials and the Broome County District Attorney’s Office, firefighters responded to a large blaze on February 12, 2025. While crews worked to contain the fire, a wall collapsed, fatally injuring Gaudet. Following an investigation, authorities determined that the fire had been intentionally set.

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, a Broome County grand jury indicted Patrick K. Shea, 36, on charges of fourth-degree arson and second-degree murder. Shea was arrested at his home before being turned over to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

He was arraigned in Broome County Court on March 14, 2025.