Retired Colorado Springs Fire Captain Dies From Job-Related Cancer Linked to 9/11

Retired Colorado Springs Fire Department Captain Patrick Rogacki passed away on August 1, 2025, after battling an aggressive form of job-related cancer linked to his heroic work at Ground Zero following the 9/11 attacks. Rogacki served with CSFD for 35 years, starting in 1979 and retiring in 2014, and was involved in numerous national disaster responses, including the Space Shuttle Columbia crash. He contributed significantly to the department by leading the High Angle Rescue Program, helping develop rescue manuals, and serving as a member and leader of the CSFD Honor Guard. The department and Fire Chief Randy Royal honored Rogacki's dedication and commitment, recognizing his impact locally and nationally, and declared his illness and death a Line of Duty Death due to his exposure to hazardous conditions. Though his memorial service is private, the community is invited to honor him during his procession. His legacy extends beyond heroic service, highlighting the dangerous health risks firefighters face, with cancer being a leading cause of death in the profession.