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Edward Norton Vows To Aid Fallen Firefighter's Family After Tragic Death On Set
15-year veteran died at Harlem Hosptial after trying to fight blaze on the set of "Motherless Brooklyn."
In a lengthy Instagram post, actor/director Edward Norton praised the heroic actions of the New York City Fire Department and vowed to help the family of fallen firefighter Michael Davidson, who perished on the set of Norton's upcoming movie Motherless Brooklyn.
"I have never witnessed firsthand that kind of bravery. I’m in awe of that kind of selfless courage," he said. "It’s devastating to contemplate that one of the men we watched charging in there lost his life."
Michael R. Davidson, the nozzle operator for Engine Company 69, was the first on the scene of the fire, according to the NY Daily News. He stormed into the cellar of the building with his fellow fighters but they were forced out when the blaze grew. That's when they lost him. He perished later at Harlem Hospital.
On Sunday, Norton attended Davidson's wake, according to US Weekly. Norton was escorted to the front of a long line outside the funeral home. Hundreds of FDNY Firefighters showed up to pay their respects to the 15-year veteran of the force. The 37-year-old's funeral will be held in New York City on March 27.
Davidson is survived by his wife and four children between the ages of 1 and 7. Norton pledged to help and support them.
Our team is committed to honoring him and assisting his family and, in due course, when we can determine with his family what form they’d like that to take," he said. "I’ll pass along any information I have about a verified way people can contribute."
Norton also tweeted out support of a scholarship fund set up in Davidson's name.
[Photos: Getty, FDNY Facebook Page]
