Man Found

Dead Inside

Smoky Home

Authorities Don’t Yet Know Why

Bassett Security Guard Passed Away

By LIBBY CUDMORE • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com

MILFORD – A Milford man was found dead in his Center Street home in “smoky conditions” following a 911 call made by his son.

Wade Bostwick, 49, a member of Bassett Hospital’s security team, was found deceased inside the home by Milford volunteer firefighters after a call at 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24.

“We received a call about a man not breathing,” said Milford Fire Chief Don Eckler. “When we arrived, we found smoke in the house and a small fire in the basement.”

According to Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr., who was also called to the scene, the fire started in the hot water heater.  The investigation into the cause Bostwick’s death is ongoing.

“Wade was often the first friendly face that people saw as they entered the Fieldstone lobby,  and he certainly had a way of setting people at ease quickly,” Bassett said in a statement. “We send our deepest sympathy to Wade’s family, friends and his close colleagues and friends in the Safety and Security department. Our thoughts are with you all.”

“Wade truly epitomized the term ‘Gentle Giant’,” said Director of Security Harold Southworth. “We will miss him very much.”

According to the hospital, funeral arrangements are still pending.