Detective James Zadroga died of a respiratory disease he contracted during rescue and recovery operations at the site of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.

Detective Zadroga had responded to the World Trade Center immediately following the attack and began providing assistance. He was inside 7 World Trade Center as it began to collapse, but was able to escape.

In the weeks following the attack, Detective Zadroga spent over 470 hours digging through debris and inhaling the noxious gases and fumes present around the Ground Zero area.

Shortly after finishing his rescue and recovery work at the World Trade Center, Detective Zadroga developed a chronic cough, shortness of breath, acid reflux, and was plagued by headaches. Within months he required oxygen tanks to breathe as well as other medicines to slow the deterioration of his health. His condition continued to worsen and Detective Zadroga was granted a 75% pay disability pension on November 1, 2004.

Detective Zadroga died on January 6, 2006, as a result of respiratory disease, black lung disease, and mercury on the brain. His death was directly linked to his work at Ground Zero.

Detective Zadroga had served with the New York City Police Department for 13 years, and was assigned to the Manhattan South Homicide Task Force.

Detective Zadroga had served with the New York City Police Department for 13 years, and was assigned to the Manhattan South Homicide Task Force.