06/07/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we join the fire service across Wisconsin in mourning the loss of a fellow firefighter who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Our thoughts and prayers are with their family, friends, and the members of their department as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We also keep in our hearts the first responders, dispatchers, and all those affected by this tragedy.
The fire service is a family, and when one department hurts, we all hurt. May we honor their dedication, courage, and selfless commitment to serving others by never forgetting their sacrifice.
Please keep this firefighter’s loved ones and their department in your thoughts during the difficult days ahead.
Rest easy, brother/sister. We have the watch from here. 🖤❤️🚒
🚒 Line of Duty Death Notification 🚑
It is with profound sadness that we announce the Line of Duty Death of Assistant Chief Matthew Anderson.
For over 32 years, Matt dedicated his life to serving others through Fire and EMS. His career began in Maple Bluff, where he earned his EMT-B certification and started a journey that would touch countless lives. Throughout his distinguished career, Matt proudly served with Madison West Ambulance, Curtis Ambulance, Bell Ambulance, Hartland Fire Department, Lisbon Fire Department, Ryan Brothers Ambulance, and the Johnson Creek Fire Department.
In 2012, while serving with Hartland Fire Department, Matt earned his Paramedic certification, further demonstrating his commitment to providing the highest level of care to those in need.
Matt was more than a firefighter, paramedic, and officer. He was a mentor, leader, teacher, and friend. He embodied the true meaning of brotherhood and dedicated countless hours to helping others succeed in the fire and EMS service. He was known for his quick wit, endless sass, and perfectly timed one-liners that could bring a smile to anyone’s face, even on the toughest days.
For more than seven years, Matt courageously battled colon cancer. Despite the challenges he faced, he continued to answer the call, serve his community, mentor future generations of firefighters and EMS providers, and give back to the profession he loved so deeply. His strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication inspired everyone around him.
Matt’s impact on the fire and EMS community cannot be measured. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the providers he trained and mentored, and the friendships he built throughout his career.
He leaves behind shoes that can never truly be filled, but his lessons, leadership, and memory will remain with us forever.
Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with Matt’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that you keep them in your hearts as they navigate the days ahead. Please know that your fire and EMS family stands beside you, and Matt’s legacy will never be forgotten.
Celebration of Life
Family, friends, and members of the fire and EMS community are invited to join us in celebrating Matt’s life on:
📍 Bowl-A-Vard Lanes
2121 E. Springs Drive
Madison, Wisconsin
📅 June 10, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Please come share stories, memories, and laughter as we honor a man who gave so much to so many.
Rest easy, brother. Thank you for your service, your friendship, your mentorship, and your unwavering dedication to others.
You will be missed, but never forgotten.
❤️🖤🚒🚑