27-Year EMT Veteran Dies Trying to Save Mother

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South Shore Ambulance Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Dennis Swenson died attempting to rescue his mother from a fire at their home.

The fire occurred on Friday, May 1 just after 4 a.m.

After investigation by the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office, it appears that Swenson, a volunteer EMT, was awakened by his pager.

The dispatch requested a response to a fire at his home in Cornucopia.

The neighbor had seen the fire from across the field, dialed 911, and then drove to the Swenson residence.

Swenson was out on the front porch.

The neighbor told Swenson that she had called 911.

He replied that he had heard the page, grabbed a fire extinguisher, and stated he was going back in for his mother.

Swenson, his mother, and the family dog were all found dead after the fire was extinguished.

“This is an incredible loss for our community,” stated Patti Stemwedel, Director of South Shore EMS (Emergency Medical Services). “Dennis had been an active EMT since 1998 – that’s 27 years as a volunteer EMT. He carried his pager wherever he went always ready to help another in need. To say he will be missed is most certainly an understatement.”

Swenson’s death, being considered a Line of Duty Death, has impacted the entire community.

A memorial service for both Dennis and his mother, Dorothy, will be held this Saturday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m. at the Herbster Community Center – 86870 Lenawee Rd, Herbster.

Visitation will start at 1:00 p.m.

The Wisconsin EMS Honor Guard and Ambulance, Fire and Law Enforcement agencies from throughout the area will be present.