This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
Luis Alvarez, a former New York City detective who dedicated his life to advocating for the health and well-being of 9/11 responders, passed away on June 29, 2019, at the age of 53, due to complications from colorectal cancer. As reported on June 29, 2019, Alvarez's death came just weeks after he delivered a powerful testimony before a House Judiciary subcommittee, urging Congress to extend health benefits to police officers, firefighters, and other emergency workers who responded to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Early Life and Career ¶
Alvarez was born in October 1965 in Queens and graduated from Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School in 1983. He served in the Marines and later joined the New York Police Department in 1990. Initially assigned to the 108th Precinct in Long Island City, Queens, in 1993, he was transferred to the Narcotics Division and promoted to detective two years later. In 2004, Alvarez volunteered for the Bomb Squad, seeking a new challenge.
A Life of Service and Advocacy ¶
Throughout his career, Alvarez received numerous awards for excellent police work and was recognized for his bravery and dedication. After retiring from the NYPD in 2010, Alvarez worked for the Department of Homeland Security until his illness became too debilitating. In 2016, Alvarez was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, which he believed was linked to his time at Ground Zero, where he was exposed to toxic substances.
Testimony and Legacy ¶
On June 11, 2019, Alvarez testified before the House Judiciary subcommittee, saying,
I will not stand by and watch as my friends with cancer from 9/11 like me are valued less than anyone else because of when they get sick.
His words resonated with lawmakers, and the refunding bill passed the full committee unanimously. Senator Mitch McConnell agreed to allow the legislation to go to a floor vote in August. Alvarez's legacy will live on through his tireless advocacy for 9/11 responders, inspiring countless others to continue the fight for justice and compensation.
The Fight for Compensation ¶
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, established in 2011, has provided $5 billion in compensation to over 21,000 claimants. However, with approximately 19,000 claims still pending and the fund projected to be depleted by the end of 2020, lawmakers are working to extend the fund for decades. As Senator Chuck Schumer noted,
We will reach the point soon, most likely this year, when more will have died from 9/11-related illnesses than on 9/11 itself.
