CT Fire Captain Dies Suddenly After 34 Years Of Service: 'Leaves Tremendous Hole'

A community in Tolland County is mourning the loss of a fire captain who spent over 30 years passing on his fire safety knowledge to the next generations.

Long-time Tolland Fire Captain Dennis Carlson has died, the Tolland Fire Department announced.
Photo Credit: *Tolland Fire Department*

Ben Crnic

05/15/2023 1:30 p.m.

Captain Dennis Carlson of the Tolland Fire Department died unexpectedly after 34 years of service, the department announced on Sunday, May 14.

Beginning his career as a volunteer before transitioning to a full-time Public Safety Officer, Carlson took on many roles during his time with the department.

This included serving as an emergency responder, an EMT, a rescue dive team scuba diver, and even an educator, as he could often be found in schools teaching fire prevention and basic aid training.

He was eventually promoted to the rank of Captain.

The department wrote on social media that Carlson's loss would leave a "tremendous hole."

"During this difficult time, please keep Captain Carlson’s family in your thoughts and prayers," the department added.

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