Statement from Village of Menands Mayor Brian Marsh on the Passing of Harbe Nagi

For Immediate release: Statement from Village of Menands Mayor Brian Marsh on the Passing of Harbe Nagi

It is with profound sadness that the Village of Menands mourns the tragic passing of seven-year-old Harbe Nagi. On behalf of the Village Board, our employees, and the entire Menands community, I extend our deepest condolences to Harbe’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time. I will be personally sharing my condolences with them at the appropriate time.

Over the past several days, our amazing community came together with extraordinary compassion and determination in the hope of bringing Harbe home safely. We are devastated that we were not successful.

We are deeply grateful to the Menands Police Department, Menands Fire Department & Auxiliary, New York State Police, New York State Forest Rangers, Albany FBI Office, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Colonie Fire Command, multiple other local police agencies, all first responders, search teams, volunteers, neighboring fire agencies, and countless residents who gave their time and support throughout the search efforts. Thank you.

Today, our hearts are with Harbe’s family and friends as they grieve this devastating loss. We ask everyone to keep them in their thoughts and to respect their privacy during this incredibly difficult time.

As the circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain under investigation, the Village will continue to pursue and cooperate fully with the investigating agencies throughout the next steps of this process. We will defer any additional comments regarding the investigation to the appropriate agency leading the case.

I sincerely request, again, that the public refrain from speculation and second-guessing our trained professionals who have been investigating this sad occurrence. This is a tragedy. Please respect those who worked diligently to find Harbe.

Brian A. Marsh
Mayor, Village of Menands