A Duluth firefighter severely injured last month in a hit-and-run while jogging has been airlifted for specialized therapy. Ray Skoglund, 24, of the Duluth Fire Department (DFD), will undergo advanced physical therapy at Denver’s Craig Hospital after suffering multiple fractures and a brain injury.
Critical conditions forced Skoglund's transfer from his Duluth bed at Essentia to the high-altitude services of Colorado's renowned Craig Hospital, escorting him with a broad display of flags and public service camaraderie on Monday. Despite the hit-and-run crash that laid Skoglund low on January 25, the firefighter’s peers have organized a stately send-off, according to a City of Duluth press release.
Admiring the local hero, Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj said, "We are honored to support the Skoglund family through their darkest hours and look forward to standing by Ray during his continued recovery." He added, "We can’t wait to welcome Ray and his family back when he can walk into Headquarters and hopefully take his place on 1 Engine," in a statement obtained by the City of Duluth press release.
Reinforcing his support, Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert highlighted the community's rallied spirit behind Skoglund and his formidable recovery path. "The City of Duluth is standing strong behind firefighter Skoglund and his family as he takes the next step in his recovery journey," said Mayor Reinert, promising the dedication of the city behind him that if anyone can tackle this marathon, it is Raymond, as mentioned in the press release.
The DFD has been feeling the absence of Skoglund since the accident occurred. His colleagues express unstinting support and hope for his thorough rehabilitation and eventual return. His Monday morning flight, administered by a medical transport and honored by area public services, ushers in this next phase of recovery. The details regarding the duration of his stay at Craig Hospital are yet to be announced.
