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How did Carl Madsen die? NFL on-field umpire, 71, died while driving home

NFL Referees Association president Scott Green said, 'Carl (Madsen) will be missed by those who worked with him on the field and in replay'

Carl Madsen, who worked as an NFL on-field umpire and then as a replay official, died on Sunday, October 24. Madsen, who had worked the Kansas City-Tennessee game, died while he was on his way home, the league confirmed on Monday, October 25. Madsen was 71 years old.

Madsen was driving home to Weldon Spring, Missouri, when he reportedly faced a medical issue. Initially, police were called at 4:46 pm CT about an SUV that was parked in a lane on Interstate 65 North. They were informed that the driver was unconscious. 

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According to Metro Nashville Police Department, the car's window was broken open by police and Madsen was removed from the vehicle. Chest compressions were performed on him until the fire department arrived at the scene. Madsen was rushed to St Thomas Midtown Hospital, where he died. 

In 1997, Madsen joined the NFL officiating staff as an umpire. He worked on the field through the 2008 season, and also worked in replay from 2009. He had previously served in the US Air Force from 1973-76.

“Carl Madsen was an NFL officiating fixture for more than two decades, first as a highly respected on-field official before transitioning to a replay role beginning in 2009," said Walt Anderson, the league's senor vice president of officiating. "A terrific friend and colleague, Carl’s love of football and dedication to officiating was ever present, as he generously shared his time to mentor young officials at clinics across the country. A veteran of the Air Force, Carl had a tremendous spirit and will be greatly missed.”

In a statement released, NFL Referees Association president Scott Green said, "Carl will be missed by those who worked with him on the field and in replay. He had a nickname among his fellow officials of 'Big Country', which was not only related to his size but to his big personality as a warm and generous man.”

Tributes poured in on social media after the news of Madsen's death was announced. "Rest in Peace Carl Madsen. As a fellow brother in the Air Force and a football fan I thank you for your contribution to our country and the game. Condolences to your family members," one user wrote, while another wrote, "My heart and condolences go out to the family of Carl Madsen, the Replay Official who worked the KC-Tenn game this week. He has given us a wonderful 25 years on the field, and dedicated his life to football and officiating and will be sorely missed." Another user said, "Rest in Peace Carl Madsen. As a fellow brother in the Air Force and a football fan I thank you for your contribution to our country and the game. Condolences to your family members."