A Paw Paw firefighter lost his life when he came in contact with a high voltage power line during the ice storm.
PAW PAW. Mich. — 28-year-old Lt. Ethan Quillen had been with the Paw Paw volunteer fire department since 2019.
He was part of a crew that was called out to assist when a power line had come down in the ice storm. The line was located in Van Buren County along 30th Street near Red Arrow Highway.
While on the scene, a tree broke further down the line and caused a powerline to collapse and then electrocute Quillen. Quillen had been standing nearby as the Michigan State Police were handling the situation.
Quillen had previously served in the U.S. Marine Corp and is survived by his wife and young child.
Authorities lined up on John Street to remember Quillen. A memorial was set up outside the Paw Paw Fire Department. Many also placed items by Quillen's gear.
WOOD TV-8 reported that GG Sweets, located at 210 East Michigan in downtown Paw Paw, has some special baked goods where 100% of sales are supporting the firefighter’s family. The cookies are $5.
Neighboring fire departments are helping provide service in the Paw Paw area while its firefighters grieve.
A GoFundMe account has been created to support Quillen’s family.
The Fire Department was trying to raise some $25,000 and as of Sunday, more than $94,000 had been raised.
Visitation and funeral arrangements are set. Both are being held Saturday, March 4th at Paw Paw High School. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and the funeral at 12:30.
(Image from woodtv.com)
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