Locals Donate to Help Injured Firefighter Max Devane

Approximately 700 people from New Hyde Park and the surrounding area came out Friday evening to the Protection Engine Company Number Two firehouse to support and raise money for injured firefighter Max Devane.

Devane was seriously injured on Friday, February 4, while helping to put out a fire in a basement on in New Hyde Park. He has had to miss a semester of school at SUNY Maritime and will not be able to perform one of his summer jobs because of his .

On Friday evening, the block of the firehouse was closed off and people enjoyed food, drink and raffles to help one of their volunteer firefighters.

For Chris Devane, Max's uncle, Friday night was a "celebration of Max and Sean [Carton]," who was also injured in the fire. He appreciated the support from everyone at the event and at other times in the community. Students from the sent Max several get well cards, Chris Devane said.

Recalling that day, Chris Devane noted that Max was working out with his father when he got the call and subsequently "everyone's lives changed." He added that, "Max stepped up to the plate that day."

Local residents and businesses stepped up to the plate for Max, donating in the tens of thousands of dollars, according to the evening's MC Edward Powers.

Editor's Note: This story was updated to include the correct name of the firehouse, Protection Engine Company Number Two.