Saturday afternoon, Ascension Wisconsin and Air Methods Air Transport released an updated joint statement; releasing the identities of the three crew members who lost their lives as a result of an Air Ambulance helicopter crash Thursday night near Hazelhurst. The statement also announced the establishment of a tribute site in remembrance of the three victims. The victims have been identified as:
“The past 24 hours have been a whirlwind of emotion and activity as our organizations continue to provide aid and assistance to those impacted by this tragedy,” the statement said,
“The outpouring of support from our Ascension and Air Methods families, first responders and the community has been significant and greatly appreciated. We have mobilized a variety of resources for our associates across the region and throughout the country to provide the level of support needed to help those involved navigate this tragedy. As the result of this support, Ascension Wisconsin Spirit Medical Transportation has been able to resume operation of its ground units for inter-facility transport. The Ascension Wisconsin Spirit Air Medical services remain grounded and we continue to work with our local EMS partners and transportation colleagues within the region to ensure patient transport needs.
We are working diligently on how to pay tribute to our lost colleagues. Many have asked if a fund has been created and what is being planned in remembrance. Here are some answers to those questions.
The Howard Young Foundation will be using its ‘Helping Hands’ fund for any donations to benefit the families of the Spirit team affected by this tragedy. 100% will go to the affected families. To donate, people are asked to visit the foundation’s website at www.howardyoungfoundation.org or call our office at 715-439-4005. Donations can also be mailed to Howard Young Foundation, PO Box 470, Woodruff, WI 54568. Please make checks payable to Howard Young Foundation – Spirit.
A remembrance banner has been placed near the recently constructed entrance to the Howard Young Medical Center campus along Highway 51. We have established this new tribute area with the intent of providing the proper balance of tribute with the needs to safely operate our facilities. Given the regional impact of our medical transportation operations, similar areas are being planned for other facilities in the area.
We would like to thank the dedicated Emergency Response professionals in our community who have been responding to this incident as well our community and friends who have reached out with their support both locally and across the country.
We ask that you please keep the families of our colleagues in your thoughts and prayers.