FDNY lieutenant, 53, found dead in bed in Staten Island firehouse, natural causes suspected

A 53-year-old FDNY lieutenant working a Christmas night shift was found dead in a Staten Island firehouse Sunday morning.

Lt. Joesph Maiello was discovered dead inside Engine 163/Ladder 83 headquarters on Jewett Ave. in Westerleigh, FDNY officials said.

Maiello had preexisting health conditions and his death is believed to be of natural causes though the city medical examiner will determine its cause, police sources said.

Maiello, a 21-year FDNY veteran, was promoted to lieutenant in February 2020 and used to work at Engine 282/Ladder 148 in Borough Park, Brooklyn.

“Our sincerest condolences and sympathies are extended to his loved ones during this heartbreaking time, just one day after the Christmas holiday,” said James McCarthy, the president of the FDNY-Uniformed Fire Officers Association. “Joe was beloved by his fellow firefighters and fire officers . . . and was known as a true leader.”