Jay Mazurkiewicz, a longtime public safety dispatcher for the West Seneca Police Department, dedicated firefighter, State Fire instructor, and NYTF-2 Rescue Specialist, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. He lived in Buffalo, New York.
Known across Western New York for his decades of service, mentorship, and his personal motto—“Press On”—Jay devoted his life to protecting his community and training the next generation of first responders.
Biography
| Full Name | Jay Mazurkiewicz |
| Date of Passing | July 21, 2026 |
| Resided In | Buffalo, Erie County, New York |
| Primary Roles | Public Safety Dispatcher (West Seneca Police Department), Firefighter, NYTF-2 Rescue Specialist, State Fire Instructor |
| Affiliations | East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company (District #4), New York Task Force 2 (NYTF-2) |
| Education | B.P.S. in Fire & Emergency Management, Empire State University (2023) |
Decades of Dedicated Public Safety & Emergency Response
Jay’s career encompassed every major facet of emergency response in Erie County and across New York State:
West Seneca Police Department
For many years, Jay served as a crucial link between the public and emergency personnel as a public safety dispatcher. Colleagues knew him for his calm, clear-headed demeanor behind the radio console, assisting citizens and guiding officers during critical incidents.
East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company (District #4)
A dedicated life member of the East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company, Jay served as a frontline firefighter, leader, and lifelong advocate for community safety.
New York Task Force 2 (NYTF-2)
Beginning on February 25, 2003, Jay served as a Rescue Specialist with NYTF-2, New York State’s specialized urban search and rescue team. In this role, he provided specialized response capabilities for technical rescues and major disaster operations across the region.
State Fire Instructor & Mentor
As an instructor, Jay spent decades teaching fire safety, tactics, and emergency medical response. He viewed instruction as a sacred duty—preparing young firefighters and EMTs with the knowledge needed to return home safely from every call.
Higher Education & Professional Development
Driven to continuously improve his leadership skills, Jay earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) in Fire and Emergency Management from Empire State University in 2023.
Tributes and Remembrances
Following news of his death, local police agencies, fire districts, friends, and family shared heartfelt tributes highlighting Jay’s influence and strength.
From His Family
“To say my dad was a fighter is an understatement. Despite all the obstacles thrown his way, he was able to spend 2 bonus weeks at home after being told he wouldn’t make it. He has sadly passed on to the next life. Thank you for all of the love and support throughout this journey. As always, press on.”
— Allie Maz, Daughter
West Seneca Police Department
“Jay dedicated his life to serving others. Whether behind the radio, in the fire service, or teaching future first responders, he was known for his professionalism, knowledge, and genuine care for the people around him. Many who knew Jay will remember him for the genuine way he looked after the people in his life… Rest in peace, Jay.”
East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company
“Anyone who had the privilege of learning from or serving alongside Jay will remember the words he lived by: ‘Press On.’ To Jay, those words meant continuing forward through adversity, never giving up, and always striving to learn, improve, and serve others… Rest easy, Brother. Your final alarm has sounded, but your lessons and legacy will live on through all of us. We have the watch from here.”
Surviving Family Members
Jay is survived by:
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His daughter, Allie Maz.
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His father, Gerard Mazurkiewicz.
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Extended family member Raid Qazmouz.
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His wife, children, extended family, and his vast network of brothers and sisters in the emergency services community.
Memorial Services and Funeral Arrangements
Details regarding public visitations, emergency services walkthroughs, and memorial arrangements will be announced by the West Seneca Police Department and the East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company.