08/25/2026
This couldn’t have been written better.
Mindy was a figure and role model to many EMS providers.
We thank you for all your time and knowledge that you’ve shared with providers.
Truly a remarkable woman.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her colleagues, friends, and family.
The officers and members of the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad join our fellow first responders and the greater Ulster County community in mourning the tragic loss of longtime First Responder, EMT, and Past Plattekill EMS Captain Melinda “Mindy” Brugger.
Mindy’s impact reached far beyond the uniform she wore or the positions she held. She was a friend, mentor, colleague, and dedicated public servant whose compassion and commitment touched countless lives throughout our fire and EMS family.
For many years, Mindy gave her time, knowledge, and heart to helping others. She answered the call when people were experiencing some of the most difficult moments of their lives, supported those who served beside her, and contributed greatly to the first responder community she loved. That legacy of service deserves to be remembered.
As additional details surrounding Mindy’s death have been released by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, the heartbreaking reality of this tragedy has become even more difficult to comprehend. While we mourn her loss, we must also acknowledge the violence that took her from her family, friends, fellow responders, and community.
The actions of the individual responsible belong solely to that individual. Previous titles, ranks, accomplishments, affiliations, or years spent in public service cannot excuse or lessen the gravity of such an act. Those actions do not represent the principles of the fire or EMS services, nor do they represent the thousands of first responders who serve every day with compassion, professionalism, integrity, and respect for human life.
Mindy deserved better.
During the difficult days ahead, KAFAS extends our deepest condolences to Mindy’s family, friends, colleagues, and the members of Plattekill Fire/EMS, as well as everyone throughout the fire and EMS community who is struggling with this tremendous loss.
We will remember Mindy not for the circumstances that ended her life, but for the life she lived—the patients she cared for, the people she helped, the friendships she formed, and the many years she dedicated to serving others.
Rest peacefully, Mindy.
Your compassion, your service, and the difference you made will remain part of our first responder community long after today.
You deserved better, and you will not be forgotten.
Chief Douglas Finney-Carter
and the Officers & Members of
Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad
