Emotional prayer service held to remember slain Appleton firefighter



APPLETON -- It was an emotional night Thursday, May 16, at the Core Church in Appleton. The community came out to show support to fallen Appleton Fire Department Firefighter Mitchell Lundgaard.

Memorial for fallen Appleton firefighter Mitchell Lundgaard





Lundgaard was killed in a shootout when he responded to a medical emergency at the downtown transit center in Appleton Wednesday evening, May 15. Investigators say a 47-year-old man was having a seizure on a bus and the situation eventually escalated to shots fired.



An Appleton police officer and a female bystander were also shot and are expected to be OK.

"At some point the male displayed a handgun and shots were exchanged between him and our officers," said Appleton Police Chief Todd Thomas.

Thursday morning, Lundgaard's body was taken from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office back up to Appleton.

Thursday evening, the community gathered to remember his life.

Vigil for fallen Appleton firefighter Mitchell Lundgaard



Mike Novotny



"There's no easy way, just long-term love. Just being there for people, encouraging them with God's promises," said Pastor Mike Novotny, The CORE church.

A man many at the gathering did not know personally but now will never forget.

"We might be broken. We know there might not be quick solutions, but to know the God of love and compassion is with us through it. I really hope that they leave tonight with that message in their hearts," said Pastor Novotny.

Mitchell Lundgaard



The 47-year-old man who suffered from the medical emergency was taken to the hospital and died from his injuries. The Green Bay Police Department is handling the investigation into the shooting.

Lundgaard was a 14-year veteran of the department, and left behind a wife and three young children.

Memorial for fallen Appleton firefighter Mitchell Lundgaard



A Go Fund Me Page has been created for the family of fallen Firefighter Mitch Lundgaard.