NIOSH Lists Factors in Fatal Shooting of WI Firefighter
Source Firehouse.com News
In a report released this month, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) outlined the factors involved in the 2019 fatal shooting of a veteran firefighter during an EMS call that also wounded a police officer and bystander.
Appleton firefighter Mitch Lundgaard was shot and killed May 15, 2019, while treating a patient who had overdosed aboard a bus. Lundgaard was part of a three-person crew, along with police and a private ambulance company, that had responded to the report of an individual having a seizure on the bus, which was at the terminal at the time.
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A paramedic administered naloxone to the unresponsive patient, who regained consciousness, according to the NIOSH report. Concerned that the naloxone would wear off and worried about the patient’s continued well-being, responders asked the patient repeatedly if he had anything that could harm them.
That's when the patient pulled a concealed handgun and began shooting. Police exchanged gunfire, eventually striking the patient, who would later be pronounced dead at the hospital. A police officer and a bystander also were wounded in the exchange of gunfire.
According to the report's recommendations, firefighters, medics and police need to be properly trained on how to give naloxone and to be aware of its effects on patients. Departments also should develop procedures and guidelines when it comes to identifying patients who require a pat down because they might present a danger to themselves or others.
"Fire, EMS, and police departments should take steps to help ensure scene safety including taking all necessary actions to protect themselves when providing lifesaving care to a patient," the report stated. "The fire service and standards setting organizations should consider developing scene safety (standard operating procedures) and training that provide more detailed guidance on the specifics of keeping first responders safe while providing lifesaving care to patients."
Go to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health website to read the full report.
