West Michigan ice storm brings down powerline causing death of Paw Paw firefighter
VAN BUREN COUNTY, MICHIGAN: State police confirmed that a downed power line caused the death of a Paw Paw firefighter in West Michigan. A press statement from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office stated that the incident occurred at approximately 5.45 pm in the 42000 block of 30th Street near 42nd Avenue in Almena Township when all firefighters were responding to emergency calls after a terrible ice storm slammed the area. The fireman was transported to a hospital, but he was subsequently declared dead on Wednesday, February 22.
In the statement released on Wednesday night on February 22, the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office said, “On behalf of the Paw Paw Fire Department, it is with a heavy heart that they lost one of their own tonight on a tragic incident, no fault of the firefighter.” The statement added, “The Department is asking at this time that you give them time to deal with this tragedy, and at a later date and time, more information will be available. They would also ask that you respect the family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this time while they are mourning the loss. Please keep all of them in your thoughts and prayers at this time. Thank you for respecting their wishes.” The Paw Paw Fire is one of the few volunteer departments in Michigan, Fox 17 reported.
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Ice storm hits West Michigan
West Michigan was hit by an ice storm Wednesday, Feb 22, that caused several trees to fall and some power lines to fall. So there have been numerous calls for emergency services as the ice storm has devastated the area. It has been confirmed that the fallen power line was caused by the weather in Van Buren County. As of now, it's unclear which provider the power line belonged to, but Consumers Energy has said it is being investigated.
“We were deeply saddened to learn of this firefighter’s passing. Extreme weather events like this are difficult for numerous reasons, but few are more important than the risk many first responders and line workers take with their lives in service of their community,” said Consumers Energy. They further said, “Our internal investigation process has begun, and we are continuing to prioritize the safety of our customers, our crews, and local partners like police and fire units as we work to mitigate dangers and restore power. Our hearts go out to their family.”
Extended condolences
The Michigan fire departments expressed their condolences on Wednesday night. “Tonight, we kneel for his family and his brothers and sisters who worked with him. Tomorrow we will stand for him,” Dowagiac Fire Department wrote on Facebook. They added, “Please keep our brothers and sisters at the Paw Paw Fire Department in your thoughts. We are here if you need anything.” “Thoughts and prayers to the Paw Paw Fire Department who lost a firefighter tonight during an emergency incident during the ice storm,” wrote the Mayville Fire Department.
In addition, the Mattawan Police Department sent its condolences. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Paw Paw Fire Department who lost a Firefighter tonight,” said the Mattawan Police Department.