Wayne Brooks Jr Wiki – Wayne Brooks Jr Biography
Newark firefighters Wayne Brooks Jr. and Augusto Acabou died overnight while fighting a fire aboard a cargo ship in Port Newark. Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson identified them as Engine 16 members aged 49 and 45 on the city’s east side.
“This is the ultimate, ultimate sacrifice for the fire service, to lose a brother or sister to this profession,” he said. “I ask that each and every one of us, not just those standing before me, but the citizens of Newark, communities across our country, the fire service is not just a municipality, it is a brotherhood, a brotherhood in the whole country, and I ask that each one of them pray for our brothers.”
We are saddened to announce the passing of two Newark Firefighters, Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks, Jr., who each died while fighting a fire at Port Newark that began July 5 and continued into July 6.
Our deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of the fallen. pic.twitter.com/R5FVWyeNSK
— City of Newark (@CityofNewarkNJ) July 6, 2023
Who was Wayne Brooks Jr.?
Wayne ‘Bears’ Brooks Jr., 49, a 16-year veteran, was assigned to Ladder 4 in the South Ironbound district.
Mike Giunta, President of the Newark Firefighters Union, released a statement saying: “It is with deep sadness that the Newark Firefighters Union announces the tragic loss of two firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while battling a devastating fire last night at the Port of Newark. We mourn the loss of our brothers Augusto (Augie) Acabou and Wayne (Bear) Brooks Jr., who courageously dedicated their lives to keeping the people of Newark safe.
“The Acabou and Brooks families are part of our family; We will cry together and hug them tight.”
Wayne Jr. was a member of Engine 16 in the North Ironbound section of Newark, according to Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson. Brooks just celebrated his daughter’s nursing degree and his own birthday.
According to his Facebook page, he recently turned 49 in June and celebrated with a fitness regimen in addition to a few other recent family milestones.
Last spring, his daughter graduated from nursing school, and he and his wife celebrated their wedding anniversary in May.
“49 Complete Birthday Cycles!!!! 50 in sight!!! Thank you…. Everyone… for taking hits… sending well wishes… shouting birthdays… texting and calling! I am always humble…blessed and truly grateful for everything. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!” Brooks said in a post on June 4.
On Thursday, friends and family shared their condolences on his social media page.
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