ST. ANNA, Wis. — An investigation has been completed into the dumpster fire at Bremer Manufacturing back in 2009 that killed St. Anna Firefighter Steven Koeser.
On December 29, 2009 A dumpster caught fire at Bremer Manufacturing Company Inc., located at W2002 Co. Highway Q in the Town of New Holstein. Calumet County Sheriff Deputies and the St. Anna Fire Department were dispatched to the scene.
While attempting to subdue the flames with water and suppressant foam, an explosion occurred from within the dumpster; killing one volunteer firefighter while eight others sustained injuries.
The incident has been thoroughly investigated by the Department of Justice Fire Marshal’s Office, Calumet County Sheriff’s Department and the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and found to be of undetermined cause.
Based on all available information, the following determinations were made regarding the origin and cause of the fire/explosion incident:
- The fire originated within the damaged refuse container, which contained aluminum alloy shavings and 55 gallon steel barrels of aluminum dross (slag).
- The cause of the fire is classified as “undetermined”, however there is no information available to indicate that the fire was as a result of an intentional act.
- The explosion occurred from within the refuse container.
- The cause of the explosion was as a result of the fire suppression efforts and the introduction of water and fire suppressant foam.
Republished with permission from WFRV.