On Wednesday, November 18, 2020, at approximately 2100hrs., Firefighter Michael Buitendorp, 40, driving a fire department tender, was responding to the scene of a camper fire in Otto Township when he lost consciousness. The firefighter who was with him was able to stop the fire apparatus and call for help. Grant Township firefighters and EMS personnel immediately performed life-saving measures. Firefighter Buitendorp was then transported to the Mercy Health Lakeshore Hospital where attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. The cause of his death is under investigation.
Our condolences to the Buitendorp Family & Friends, Grant Township Fire Department, and to all affected by Firefighter Michael Buitendorp's passing.
To date, 79 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2020. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.
