A deputy U.S. marshal has died of cancer linked to the 2001 World Trade Center response.
The U.S. Marshals Service said Wednesday that the passing of Zacarias Toro is considered a line-of-duty death. It says the World Trade Center Health Program determined his cancer resulted from his work at the trade center.
The Nanuet, New York resident died Sunday.
Marshals Service Director Stacia A. Hylton says the heroism shown by Toro and other responders should never be forgotten.
U.S. Marshal Michael Greco of the Southern District of New York added in a statement: “Deputy Toro is a true hero, whose rescue efforts during the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, were a small glimpse into the character of an individual who was a true patriot in every sense of the word.
"Deputy Toro’s love for his family and his dedication to the Marshals Service will always be a shining example for others to aspire to and will never be forgotten," he said.
Toro was the recipient of the Marshals Service Purple Heart Award. He began his career with the U.S. Marshals as a detention enforcement officer in August 2000, then was later promoted to deputy U.S. Marshal.
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He worked in New York, Arizona and California.
Survivors include his wife Lorraine; children Zachary, Jeremy, Nicholas and Emily; and his mother.
A wake for Toro will be held Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. at Redeeming Love Christian Church on West Route 59 in Nanuet, and the funeral will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at the same location.
