The Ozaukee County Dispatch Center received several reports of an explosion on Brandt Drive, in the Town of Cedarburg on Saturday, July 25 at 11:48 a.m. It was reported there was a fire with a large amount of black smoke coming from the area.
Deputies arrived, two victims were identified, a 54-year-old male and an 82-year-old male, both from the Town of Cedarburg. Both victims received critical injuries and were transported to a burn center in Milwaukee. A dog was also injured and was taken to an animal hospital.
The explosion occurred in an outbuilding. The building is described as a metal shed. The building was a total loss.
It is unknown what caused the explosion. The investigation remains active and all possibilities are being investigated. The Wisconsin State Fire Marshall will be assisting with the investigation.
Cedarburg Fire Department assisted, along with the Ozaukee Central Fire Department, and fire departments from Port Washington, Fredonia, Southern Ozaukee, Jackson, Menomonee Falls, Germantown, West Bend, Hartford, Richfield, Newburg, Grafton Police and WE Energies.
54-year-old Michael Foeger and 82-year-old Karl Foeger, both from the Town of Cedarburg were injured.
Officer Mike Foeger has served with the Newburg Police Department for over 15 years, including 10 years as the chief of police. He is also a nearly 30-year veteran of the Jackson Police Department, where he is currently a lieutenant.
Throughout his career, Mike has dedicated his life to serving and protecting others.
After three long months in the burn unit, Mike was released and transferred to a rehabilitation facility, where he will continue his recovery, according to the Jackson Police Department.
The Jackson Police Department were honored to provide an escort as Mike was transported from one hospital to another. Upon his arrival, he was greeted by an incredible show of support from fellow law enforcement officers, firefighters, medical staff, family, and friends.
Throughout this ordeal, Mike has demonstrated extraordinary strength, determination, and resilience. His fighting spirit has been nothing short of inspiring, and we could not be prouder of the progress he has made.
Mike's father, Karl, and the entire Foeger family are in our thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult journey.
Finally, the Jackson Police Department expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the countless individuals, organizations, and communities who have surrounded the Foeger family with prayers, encouragement, generosity, and unwavering support. The outpouring of compassion has been truly remarkable.
