USFA LODD: Maryland Firefighter On-Duty Death Notification 04.15.2016

On April 15, 2016 at 1930hrs, Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department (PGFD) responded to a home for a welfare check call regarding a man with medical conditions that had not responded to relatives attempting to contact him. After arriving on scene, checking for any open doors or windows, and after making themselves known several times, firefighters forced entrance to the residence. As they entered the home, the resident fired several gun shots striking PGFD Firefighter/Paramedic John E. Ulmschneider, Morningside Volunteer Firefighter Kevin Swain, and the relative who had originally called for help. After being transported to the hospital, Firefighter/Paramedic Paramedic John E. Ulmschneider, 37, succumbed to his injuries. Firefighter Swain remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition. Police said the resident of the home believed his house was being broken into and fired in self-defense. No charges have been filed. Investigation into the fatal incident continues by authorities.

      

Our condolences to the Ulmschneider Family & Friends, Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department, and to all affected by Firefighter/Paramedic Paramedic John E. Ulmschneider’s passing.

    

To date, 20 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2016. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page. 

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)