Gov. Healey Files Legislation Ensuring Full Pay And Benefits For Injured Firefighter

The firefighter was injured in a fall from a Stow Academy burn building.

By Joseph Hosey, Patch Staff

May 13, 2026 4:33 pm EDT

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey filed legislation ensuring a Chelmsford firefighter injured in a fall from a Stow Academy burn building receives full pay and benefits. (Jenna Fisher/Patch)

CHELMSFORD, MA — Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey filed legislation ensuring a Chelmsford firefighter injured in a fall from a Stow Academy burn building receives full pay and benefits.

Firefighter Nicholas Spinale fell about from the burn building April 7 while training other firefighters, according to a GoFundMe that has raised more than $177,000.

"He sustained multiple serious injuries, including facial fractures, severe internal organ damage, and fractures to both wrists," according to the GoFundMe. "He faces several surgeries to fix his injuries. Funds raised would support his ongoing rehabilitation and recovery."

Spinale was discharged from Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Monday, the Chelmsford Fire Department posted to social media.

Since Spinale was injured while working for the state at the fire academy, he was is not eligible for injured on duty compensation from Chelmsford, according to a media release from the governor's office.

Healey’s "legislation would ensure that he receives full pay and benefits and maintains his full-time position with the Chelmsford Fire Department while he recovers from his injuries," the release said.

"Nicholas Spinale is a hero. Firefighters run into danger every day to keep people safe, and Nick went even further to lend his expertise to train the next generation of firefighters,” Healey said in the release.

“He suffered from a tragic, life-altering accident while doing this important work, and the last thing he needs is to worry about whether he will continue to be able to support himself and his family," Healey said. "This legislation will ensure that he receives the full pay and benefits that he deserves so that he can rightfully focus on his recovery."