Infamous Fire Union Prez-Elect Knocked Out in Thanksgiving Eve Clash

John “Jack” Collins, a Jersey City firefighter and attorney, was involved in a Thanksgiving Eve physical altercation on West Side Avenue in Jersey City.

HudPost exclusively obtained video footage of the incident, which begins with Collins’ vehicle narrowly avoiding a head-on collision after a group of jaywalkers stepped into oncoming traffic.

Infamous JCFD Union Prez-Elect Knocked Out in Thanksgiving Eve Clash https://t.co/Fg57FeWI7f pic.twitter.com/DCEWfiIwrr

— HudPost (@hudpost) December 6, 2024

Approximately 30 seconds after disaster was averted, Collins reversed his vehicle back to the intersection of West Side and Clendenny Avenues, exited, and confronted a group of three — which appears to include one adult male, one adult female, and a teenager.

In the footage, Collins is seen stepping toward and hovering over the male in the group while the female attempts to pull the man back. Moments later, the male individual throws a punch, knocking Collins unconscious.

HudPost sent a request for comment to the City of Jersey City and will update this story when new details are made available.

This incident adds to the controversy surrounding Collins. Earlier this year, he faced a six-month suspension for ethical violations related to his legal career.

Days before the altercation, HudPost exclusively reported that Collins was elected president of the Jersey City Firefighters Union (IAFF Local 1066).

The article noted that Collins is engaged to Jersey City Councilwoman Amy DeGise, a prominent Hudson County political figure who became infamous for her own issues while driving in Jersey City. He is also a supporter of County Commissioner Bill O’Dea’s 2025 mayoral bid.

The Thanksgiving Eve altercation may raise new questions about Collins’ fitness to serve as union president.