“It’s a terrible Tragedy.” Those are the words of Manitowoc Police Chief Nick Reimer reacting to a shooting in Appleton that took the life of Mitchell F. Lundgaard, a 14-year veteran firefighter. Three others were injured in the shooting, including a police officer.
Chief Reimer said he had spoken to Appleton Police Chief Todd Thomas, his good friend and confidant, on the phone this morning. He adds “All who thought it was going to be a typical workday changed the lives of many forever. You can’t bring that family member back but you certainly want to do whatever you can for them. My prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Police and Fire Departments responded to Valley Transit around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday evening for a medical call to assist a 47-year-old male who was arriving on a bus from out of the area. The initial report stated the male was having a seizure. First responders provided initial medical assistance on the bus. The male eventually left the bus and started walking towards the library. At some point, he displayed a handgun and shots were exchanged between him and police officers. Firefighter Lundgaard was struck by gunfire along with a female bystander, and an Appleton Police Officer. The police officer was released from the hospital earlier today. The female is in stable condition. The 47-year-old male was transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries.
