Matthew Goicochea Obituary, Death: FDNY says firefighter died in overnight motorcycle crash on FDR Drive.

Matthew Goicochea Obituary, Death – A tragic motorcycle crash early Thursday morning on Manhattan’s FDR Drive claimed the life of a 31-year-old man, later identified as a firefighter with the New York City Fire Department.

According to the New York Police Department, the incident occurred just before 4 a.m. on the northbound lanes of the FDR Drive near East 25th Street in the Kips Bay neighborhood. Responding officers arrived to find the motorcyclist lying on the roadway with serious injuries. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities later confirmed the identity of the victim as FDNY firefighter Matthew Goicochea. He had been riding his motorcycle when, according to police, he was involved in a collision with another vehicle.

Goicochea had served with the fire department since 2022 and had already distinguished himself in his short career. In 2023, he was honored with the Thomas Wylie Medal, a prestigious award recognizing bravery and exceptional service. The medal was awarded for his courageous actions in saving an unconscious person during a fire in the Bronx.

The FDNY has not yet released a statement, but the department and the wider firefighting community are mourning the loss of a young firefighter who showed great promise and heroism early in his career.

The exact circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. Authorities have not provided details about the vehicle involved in the collision or whether any other individuals were injured. As is standard procedure in fatal traffic accidents, the NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad is handling the case.

The FDR Drive, which runs along the eastern edge of Manhattan, is a heavily trafficked roadway and has been the site of numerous accidents over the years, especially during early morning or late-night hours when visibility and road conditions can be challenging.

Goicochea’s death marks a somber moment for both the FDNY and the city at large. His bravery during the Bronx rescue had already marked him as an officer with great potential and dedication. Many who knew him will remember him not just for his professional accomplishments but also for his service and sacrifice.

The investigation is ongoing, and officials are urging any witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage from the area around the time of the crash to come forward with information that might help piece together what happened.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that firefighters and first responders face both on and off duty. As the city grieves the loss of one of its own, tributes are expected from fellow firefighters, city officials, and the community he served.

Goicochea is survived by family, friends, and colleagues who are now coping with the unexpected loss of a hero gone too soon.