The retirement of FDNY fireboat pilot Thomas Waller, involved in a fatal collision that killed a Belgian firefighter, has come under scrutiny as he receives a six-figure annual disability pension. Waller is retiring after 22 years on the job with an annual pension of at least $110,000. The collision, which resulted in the death of visiting firefighter Johnny Beernaert, was due to reckless operation and unsafe speed of the fireboat. This incident has highlighted the misuse of FDNY fireboats for personal use rather than medical emergencies as intended.
The tragic accident occurred when retired FDNY Capt. Stephen Lonergan requested a sightseeing trip to the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge on one of the fireboats. Waller was assigned to pilot the impromptu trip, during which the fireboat was traveling at a high speed of 28 mph while a nearby pleasure boat, “Honcho,” was moving at 6 mph. Beernaert died from blunt force injuries to the head when the Honcho collided with the fireboat, causing the death of the firefighter and minor injuries to others on board.
Under FDNY pension rules, Waller qualifies for a boosted disability pension due to accidental injuries in the line of duty. Disability pensions pay 75% of the retiree’s last three years of salary and normally cannot be collected as a result of the retiree’s own negligence. The cause of Waller’s purported disability remains unknown, and FDNY spokespersons have declined to disclose details regarding his injuries.
The Coast Guard’s investigation report did not mention Waller by name but noted that the fireboat operator was treated and released on the night of the crash. Despite the tragedy, no disciplinary charges were brought against Waller or other personnel involved that night. Waller, along with several others, was reassigned to desk duties or transferred out of the FDNY’s marine division following the incident. This lack of discipline has raised concerns about the accountability within the department.
The violation of multiple FDNY marine rules during the joyride and the subsequent fatal collision have led Beernaert’s widow, Heidi Vermandel, to file a lawsuit against the city and New York City Boat Tours in federal court. The parties have been encouraged to seek private mediation to potentially reach a settlement. Waller’s attorney has not provided any comments on the matter, and Vermandel has not filed any claims against Waller personally. The tragic incident has shed light on the importance of transparency in public spending and accountability within public safety departments.
