The Tunnel to Towers Foundation to Support the Families of Fallen Newark Firefighters

Newark Firefighters Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks Jr. were killed on July 5th

As the New Jersey community prepares to come together to mourn the loss of Newark firefighters Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks Jr., the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is announcing its plans to support the families these heroes left behind.

Tunnel to Towers announced it will pay off the mortgage on the Union, New Jersey, family home of Wayne Brooks Jr., and will provide financial support to Augusto Acabou’s fiancée.

The two men died while battling a fire on board a cargo ship on July 5th.

Brooks leaves behind wife, Michele, and daughters, Taylor and Dasia. Acabou was engaged and living with his fiancée.

Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller spoke to Brooke’s wife Michele, she was so overcome, all that she could say was “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Firefighter Brooks, a 16-year veteran, was stationed at Ladder 4. Firefighter Acabou had nearly a decade of service and was stationed at Engine 16.

“These two heroes had more than a quarter century of service to their community, impacting a countless number of lives. This tragedy is a reminder that there are no routine calls. Firefighters risk their lives every time they answer a call. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation will honor the bravery of Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks by supporting the loved ones they left behind,” said Siller.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s Fallen First Responder Program pays off the mortgages for the families of law enforcement officers and firefighters who are killed in the line of duty.

Join us on our mission to support fallen first responder families by donating $11 per month at T2T.org.