The Highland, New York, and Hudson Valley first-responder communities are mourning the loss of James “Jimmy” Brugger and his wife, Melinda “Mindy” Brugger, who were found dead at their Milton Turnpike home on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Jimmy Brugger, 66, was a respected retired City of Poughkeepsie firefighter and longtime fire-service instructor known for his dedication to emergency response training and public safety. His wife, Mindy Brugger, 54, was also deeply connected to the emergency services community as an EMT, CPR instructor, and healthcare safety professional.
Their deaths have left family, friends, colleagues, and fellow first responders grieving the loss of two people who dedicated much of their lives to helping others.
What Happened to Jimmy and Mindy Brugger?
Authorities responded to the couple’s home on Milton Turnpike in Highland, Ulster County, late Friday night after receiving a report involving two unconscious individuals.
Emergency responders arrived at approximately 11:42 p.m. and discovered Jimmy and Mindy Brugger deceased inside the residence.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation. The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Plattekill Police Department are involved in the ongoing investigation.
Officials have not publicly released details about how either individual died or confirmed the manner of death.
Although some reports and online discussions have referred to the incident as a possible murder-suicide, authorities have not officially classified the deaths as a murder-suicide. Investigators continue working to determine exactly what occurred inside the home.
Remembering Jimmy Brugger
James “Jimmy” Brugger was widely respected throughout the fire-service community.
During his career with the City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department, he served as a firefighter and later became known for sharing his knowledge and experience through fire-service instruction.
Colleagues remembered Jimmy as someone committed to training future emergency responders and strengthening the skills of those who served their communities.
His dedication to the fire service reflected a lifelong commitment to protecting others. Through his professional work and teaching, Jimmy influenced many firefighters and emergency personnel.
Remembering Mindy Brugger
Melinda “Mindy” Brugger was also a valued member of the emergency response and healthcare community.
As an EMT, CPR instructor, and healthcare safety professional, Mindy spent years helping educate and prepare others to respond during medical emergencies.
Her work reflected compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to improving safety for those around her.
Friends and colleagues have remembered both Jimmy and Mindy as individuals who devoted themselves to service and helping people in times of need.
Community Responds to Loss
The deaths of Jimmy and Mindy Brugger have deeply affected the Hudson Valley first-responder community.
For many who knew them, the couple represented dedication, service, and a commitment to making their community safer. Their careers placed them in roles where they supported others during some of life’s most difficult moments.
As investigators continue reviewing the circumstances of their deaths, family members, friends, and colleagues are left remembering the impact they made throughout their lives.
Jimmy and Mindy Brugger Profile
- Names: James “Jimmy” Brugger and Melinda “Mindy” Brugger
- Ages: Jimmy, 66; Mindy, 54
- Location: Highland, New York
- Date Found: August 21, 2026
- Residence: Milton Turnpike, Highland
- Jimmy’s Profession: Retired City of Poughkeepsie firefighter, fire-service instructor
- Mindy’s Profession: EMT, CPR instructor, healthcare safety professional
- Cause and Manner of Death: Under investigation
The loss of Jimmy and Mindy Brugger has created a profound void among those who knew and worked alongside them. Their legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to helping others will continue to be remembered by the communities they served.
Further details regarding the investigation, funeral arrangements, or memorial services may be released by authorities or the family at a later time.
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