WPCNR MILESTONES. November 16, 2006: Ron Jackson -- advocate for the underprivileged -- host of Winbrook Like It Is -- former member of the White Plains Housing Authority and always in the forefront on issues that matter died today in White Plains as a result of a smoking accident
Ron Jackson, "The Last Activist," right, as he appeared on White Plains Week in 2004 before health problems beset him. He is seen as most people will remember him -- advocating and speaking out on the issues. Mr. Jackson arranged for the naming of Ferris Avenue after his friend Bump Robinson. He advocated for the Slater Center. He was responsible in part for lobbying for a more intelligent construction of the White Plains Housing Authority Headquarters at Winbrook. He was always vigilant and fearless. Photo, WPCNR News Archives.
. White Plains Police reported Mr. Jackson's death early this morning as a result of an accident. Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety Daniel Jackson told WPCNR, "Public Safety personnel responded to the Apartment of Ron Jackson at 13-15 Harmon Street at 6:36 this morning. Apparently he suffered injuries when a lit cigarette and his Oxygen supply caused a flash over.
There was no active fire however Mr. Jackson went into cardiac arrest. He was transported by ambulance to White Plains hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Unfortunately, his ailing health and the injuries this morning were too much for him.
It really didn't cause more than an instant flare-up. There was no fire to extinguish. No damage to the apt.
It is a significant and tragic loss to the City of White Plains. The City of White Plains Department of Public Safety expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Jackson."
