NYC firefighter tells of fatal fire at ground zero

NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City firefighter has given a wrenching account of trying to save two fellow firefighters who died in a blaze at a toxic, condemned skyscraper at the ground zero site.

James Martin testified today at the trial of three construction company supervisors and a firm charged with manslaughter in the August 2007 blaze at the former Deutsche Bank building. They’ve pleaded not guilty.

Martin said firefighter Joseph Graffagnino gasped that he was out of oxygen as they and firefighter Robert Beddia backed down a stairwell. Martin said he tried to lead Graffagnino to safety, but the firefighter flailed at him and fell.

Martin choked up as he recounted deciding he had to leave Graffagnino to get help.

Graffagnino and Beddia both died of smoke inhalation.