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Med Flight Resumes 24-Hour Service Save Email Print
Reporter: NBC 15 News Team
151 comments Photos
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Friday, May 30, 2008 --- 1:45 p.m.

MADISON, Wis — Beginning at 7 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, UW Hospital and Clinics’ Med Flight service will resume 24-hour service operation.

According to a news release from UW Health Public Affairs, Med Flight will staff the helicopter in two shifts: one from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the other from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

For the last week, Med Flight has been performing air medical transport between the hours of 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

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Thursday, May 22, 2008 --- 12:00 p.m.

MADISON- UW Med Flight will resume patient flights on Friday, May 23 at 9:00 a.m., just under two weeks after a crash that killed flight physician Darren Bean, flight nurse Mark Coyne and pilot Steve Lipperer.

“No one wants to get back in the air more than the dedicated members of our Med Flight crew. They are passionate about what they do,” said Bruce Lindsay, MD, medical director of Med Flight.

The decision to resume the service that has been in existence for 23 years came after three days of “confidence flight” for Med Flight staff.

Lindsay says the service will initially operate 12 hours a day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“Those hours are peak hours for Med Flight calls. And we felt it was extremely important to resume patient flights for the busy Memorial Day weekend,” said Lindsay.

Calls that come in from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. will be handled as they would if Med Flight was already out on a flight. A network of hospitals around the state routinely backs up Med Flight when the helicopter is on another patient transport. Lindsay says in addition to the pilot, a flight physician and nurse will staff every flight, the routine protocol for Med Flight.

The service will fly with one helicopter until the second aircraft can be replaced by Air Methods of Denver, the company that contracts with UW Health for Med Flight services.

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Thursday, May 22, 2008 --- 11:30 a.m.

UW Hospital announced Thursday morning it will resume med flight services Friday.

Med flights were grounded more than a week ago after 3 medical staff members died in a crash near La Crosse.

Killed were Dr. Darren Bean, nurse Mark Coyne and pilot Steve Lipperer.

A preliminary report on the crash was released yesterday, but no cause was cited. The NTSB says a final report could take upwards of 6 months to a year.

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Wednesday, May 21, 2008 --- 9:30 a.m.

A preliminary investigation was unable to pinpoint a cause of the fatal Med Flight cash that killed three men near La Crosse May 10. The helicopter was destroyed during an in-flight collision with trees and terrain.

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the helicopter was equipped with a global positioning system (GPS) tracking equipment that provided departure, arrival and en route position information to the operator's Operations Control Center. Flight progress was automatically updated every three minutes. According to the GPS flight-following data, the flight stopped for refueling and no further position updates were received after that.

Local authorities received a 911 call from a resident stating they thought they had heard an aircraft crash. Around 11 p.m., the helicopter operator notified local authorities that the aircraft was missing. A search subsequently located the helicopter wreckage about 9 a.m. the next morning.

The accident site was located on a wooded hillside in a sparsely populated area approximately 4 1/2 miles southeast of La Crosse. At the time the helicopter left after refueling, moderate rain and fair visibility was reported.

Killed in the crash were Dr. Darren Bean, 37; nurse Mark Coyne, 53; and pilot Steve Lipperer, 39.

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UPDATE: Tuesday, May 20, 2008 --- 3:45 p.m.

MADISON - Med Flight staff members began confidence flights Tuesday at 1 p.m.

The 10 to 15 minute flights will be available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to staff members who would like to fly before regular patient service resumes. The confidence flights are available to Med Flight pilots, registered nurses,physicians, dispatchers, emergency medicine residents and administration.

This is another step in resuming Med Flight service as soon as possible. There is no final decision on when patient flights will resume.

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UPDATE: Thursday, May 15, 2008 --- 10:45am

Traffic and Parking Restrictions for Memorial Service:

Traffic and parking in the following areas will be affected by tonight’s memorial service for Dr. Darren Bean and pilot Steve Lipperer:

• No Parking on East Wilson Street between King Street and South Hamilton Street from 1:00 PM to approximately 8:30 PM.

• Due to a large number of emergency vehicles and funeral vehicles, expect traffic delays in the area of the Monona Terrace Convention Center between the times of 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

Family members have asked that the media not attend. NBC 15 will respect those wishes.

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UPDATED Wednesday, May 14 --- 3:45pm

There have been a number of questions surrounding gifts in memory of the Med Flight crew.

While it was announced initially a fund had been established at the US Foundation for the three victims, that is not the case.

Instead, Dr. Bean's family is asking any memorials go to a scholarship fund for Dr. Bean's two children.

Scholarship Fund:
Goldstein, Petrowski & Assoc
Ameriprise Financial
1110 Fourier Drive
Madison, WI 53717
Make checks payable to:
Tomorrow's Scholar
Memo line: write "Benefit Caitlyn & Parker Bean"

Pilot Steve Lipperer's family is asking all gifts be made in his honor to the Dane County Humane Society.

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UPDATED Wednesday, May 14 --- 7:25 am

A memorial service for the nurse killed in the UW Med Flight crash will be held next week.

The service for Mark Coyne will be held Monday, May 19 at 5 pm at Crossroads Church (3815 S. Dutch Mill Road, Madison).

A memorial service will be held this Thursday to honor Dr. Darren Bean and pilot Steven Lipperer. It will be held on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Monona Terrace.

Family members have asked that the media not attend. NBC 15 will respect those wishes.

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UPDATED Tuesday, May 13 --- 5:25 pm

The Wisconsin State Journal reported Tuesday that a faulty altitude detector was a contributing factor in a fatal crash of the same kind of helicopter owned by the same company as the Med Flight chopper that crashed Saturday night near La Crosse.

The same safety board investigating the UW Hospital Med Flight crash that killed its crew of three, said a faulty radar altimeter contributed to the crash of a Eurocopter EC315 helicopter in Washington, D.C., in January 2005.

That helicopter, like UW's that crashed, was owned by Denver-based Air Methods.

A radar altimeter measures the distance above ground, while a regular altimeter measures the distance above sea level.

Air Methods spokesman Craig Yale said Tuesday that the helicopter it leased to Med Flight that crashed Saturday almost certainly had a working radar altimeter.

Wisconsin State Journal Article

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UPDATED Tuesday, May 13 --- 11:15 a.m.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A coroner says the patient transported by a Med Flight helicopter that later crashed died after arriving at a hospital in La Crosse.

Crawford County Coroner Joe Morovitz says the elderly woman died early Sunday after suffering bleeding in her brain.

He says the woman had been transferred from a hospital in Prairie Du Chien to Gundersen Lutheran in La Crosse by the UW Hospital Med Flight helicopter.

The helicopter crashed on the way home to Madison after dropping the woman off in La Crosse. A surgeon, nurse and pilot on board were killed.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

______________________________________________________

UPDATE Posted Tuesday, May 13 --- 8:30am

A medical helicopter from the University of Wisconsin-Madison was filling in for one from a La Crosse hospital last weekend when it crashed on its return flight to Madison, killing all three people aboard.

UW-Madison spokesman Don Cady says the UW's leased helicopter was sent to Prairie du Chien about 8:30 p.m. Saturday to transport a patient to Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse because that hospital's helicopter was responding to another emergency.

After transporting the patient, the UW's helicopter refueled at the La Crosse airport about 10:30 p.m. and left for Madison but crashed on a bluff moments later. The wreckage was found Sunday.

Gundersen Lutheran's Med Link helicopter had responded Saturday evening to a three-vehicle traffic crash in Arcadia that killed an Arcadia couple and injured three others.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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UPDATE Posted Monday, May 12 --- 5:45pm

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Workers at UW Hospital observed a moment of silence this afternoon to reflect on the loss of three colleagues killed when their medical helicopter crashed.

Hospital spokeswoman Toni Morrissey says workers are considering how to permanently memorialize surgeon Darren Bean, nurse Mark Coyne and pilot Steve Lipperer.

The three died Saturday night when their helicopter crashed on a return flight from La Crosse, where they had taken a patient to a hospital.

Authorities have said the helicopter appeared to strike a hill or trees shortly after taking off from the La Crosse airport. The National Transportation Safety Board was on the scene investigating the cause today.

Morrissey says well wishes are coming in from around the world and the UW Foundation has set up a fund for donations.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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UPDATE Posted Monday, May 12 --- 11:50am

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A company spokesman says the medical helicopter that crashed in Wisconsin did not have two pieces of safety equipment recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Mike Allen, senior vice president at Denver-based Air Methods, says the helicopter was not equipped with a computerized voice system to warn of approaching terrain or night vision goggles for the pilot.

The University of Wisconsin Hospital Med Flight helicopter crashed after dropping off a patient in La Crosse. Officials say it appeared the craft struck a hill or trees shortly after taking off, killing a surgeon, nurse and pilot.

The NTSB recommended night vision goggles and the warning system in a 2006 report that suggested many fatal EMS flights could be prevented.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved

______________________________________________________

UPDATE Posted Monday, May 12 --- 9:15am

Share Your Condolences and Personal Memories

To express your condolences or share your memories of the Med Flight crew members killed in the helicopter crash near La Crosse, please click on the above link. It will link you to a special tribute, created by UW Health.

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UPDATE Posted Monday, May 12 --- 8:10am

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The National Transportation Safety Board said today it has an investigator on the scene of a fatal medical helicopter crash in the town of Onalaska.

The work now begins to determine what caused the crash of a UW Hospital Med Flight late Saturday that killed all three on board.

They include surgeon Darren Bean, nurse Mark Coyne and pilot Steve Lipperer. They had just dropped off a patient at a hospital in La Crosse shortly before crashing.

The wreckage was found yesterday. UW Hospital executive Margaret Van Bree says it appears to have struck a hill or some trees.

Lipperer's father, Raymond Lipperer, of Johnson Creek, said his son had always wanted to fly. He was a contract employee for the hospital system since 2000.

Bean had been a Med Flight physician for the hospital system in 2002.

Coyne was a 22-year veteran of the Med Flight system and had worked for the hospital since 1981.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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UPDATE Posted: Sunday, May 11 -- 9:15pm

**MED FLIGHT TIMELINE**

Saturday, 8:30pm: UW Hospital officials say the Med Flight crew left Madison, en route to Prairie du Chien to transport a patient there to a La Crosse hospital.

10:30pm: The crew safely lands in La Crosse, leaves the hospital for La Crosse Airport to refuel.

10:43pm: Med Flight leaves airport for Madison. Shortly thereafter, communication with the medical team was lost.

Approx. 11:00pm: Search efforts get underway in the La Crosse area.

Sunday, 8:40am: Nearly 10 hours later, the wreckage is located.

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UPDATE Posted Sunday, May 11 --- 8:00pm

Statement from the family of Mark Coyne:
The family of Mark Coyne wish to thank everyone close to his family for their thoughts and prayers. Mark was passionate about nursing and teaching. He died doing what he loved and his inspiration will live on in his family, friends, co-workers and students. Special thanks to the staff of the UW Health/University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics for their professionalism.

______________________________________________________

UPDATE Posted May 11 -- 6:55pm
By Zac Schultz

Town of Medary, La Crosse County: Randy Viner and his wife Deborah were in bed just before 11 Saturday night when Deborah heard a loud crash coming from the woods behind their home. "It sounded like thunder, but I'm thinking why is it thundering because it's not raining that hard out?"

The next morning firefighters found the missing Med Flight helicopter a quarter-mile from their home.

The helicopter took off from the airport about five miles to the west of the Keil Coulee valley. It crashed into the trees as it came over the ridge, slid down the slope, and came to a rest against some trees -about halfway down the valley.

Deborah wasn't the only person in the area that heard the crash. "We received a call from persons who lived in this area who heard a real loud crash, and believed it was some type of an aircraft crash," says Steve Helgeson, La Crosse County Sheriff.

The crash happened just before 11pm, and search crews were ready in a half-hour, but a heavy fog covered the valley. "With the weather we had last night we weren't able to find it until about 8:45 this morning," says Helgeson.

Thirty-three firefighters combed a few square miles in the dark. Onalaska Fire Chief Don Dominick says people in Madison were calling one of the cell phones at the crash site. "It was probably about 4 am there was a signal not too far from a radio tower right here. So were able to fine tune the area."

Dominick says they climbed up the back side of the hill. "So they come up to the top of this hill and noticed some trees were busted off and followed the path and found it. That was about 8:30 this morning."

He says the helicopter clipped trees for a few hundred yards before it hit a large tree, snapped in half and crashed to the ground.

The bodies of the crew were thrown from the cab.

The helicopter took off from the La Crosse airport and had to cross several large bluffs before hitting the trees. Sheriff Helgeson says the FAA will lead the investigation. "It does appear the helicopter did strike trees up near the top of the bluff, but what the cause of the crash is we don't know."

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Latest Update Posted at 1:25pm
Posted Sunday, May 11 --- 7:00am

NOTE: You can watch the UW-Hospital Press Conference in the video player to the right of this story. The pictures & bios of the victims are posted below.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A University of Wisconsin Hospital spokesman says three people died when a UW Med Flight helicopter crashed after taking off last night from La Crosse.

Aaron Conklin says a surgeon, a nurse and the pilot were killed in the crash, which took place as the helicopter was returning to Madison from the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center.

Allan Tiedt of the La Crosse County Emergency Dispatch Center says the wreckage was found in the town of Onalaska.

UW Hospital chief operating officer Margaret Van Bree says those killed in the crash were surgeon Darren Bean, nurse Mark Coyne and pilot Steve Lipperer.

She says the helicopter left Madison around 8:30 last night to drop off a patient at the La Crosse hospital and departed the airport there at about 10:30.

Van Bree says there was no further communication with the crew.

She says the helicopter was found about four miles from the airport at about 8:40 this morning.

Van bree says preliminary reports indicate the helicopter may have struck a hill or some trees but the exact cause is not yet known.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

______________________________________________________

The Victims:

Darren Bean -
Darren Bean, MD became a Med Flight physician for University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics in 2002 after completing residency training at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. He received his MD from the University of Vermont College of Medicine in 1999.

In addition to his Med Flight duties, Bean was the emergency department director of ultrasound, member of the hospital’s multidisciplinary trauma committee and an executive board member of the Regional Trauma Advisory Committee (RTAC).

Bean was an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.

Mark Coyne -
Mark Coyne, RN was a Med Flight nurse for the past 22 years. Coyne has been at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics since 1981. Coyne also was an emergency medical technician-paramedic and a certified instructor in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).

Steve Lipperer -
Steve Lipperer became a Med Flight pilot for University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics in 2000. He was employed by Air Methods of Denver, the company that leases the aircraft to the hospital.

______________________________________________________

Governor Doyle Statement on the Passing of Med Flight Crew:

MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today issued the following statement on the passing of the Darren Bean, M.D., Mark Coyne, R.N. and pilot Steve Lipperer, the crew of a Med Flight helicopter that delivered a patient to Gundersen Lutheran in La Crosse before its last flight:

"In our moments of greatest peril, our lives depend on the courageous work of Med Flight personnel," Governor Jim Doyle said. "Dr. Darren Bean, Mark Coyne and Steve Lipperer dedicated themselves to rescuing people who faced the longest odds, and we owe them tremendous gratitude for their extraordinary service and dedication. I pray for them, their families and all the others who love them."

______________________________________________________

Earlier Reports Posted Prior to Noon:

UPDATE: University of Wisconsin Hospital spokespeople are confirming that 3 people have died when the UW Med Flight helicopter crashed near La Crosse

Med Flight left Madison around 8:30pm Saturday night to transport a patient to a La Crosse hospital. After dropping the patient off, the helicopter left around 10:30pm.

There was no other radio communication from the crew. The last message was a software signal sending confirmation that the aircraft took off.

The crash site was found around 8:45 this morning about 4 to 5 miles away from the area airport on a wooded hillside. Preliminary results show that the helicopter may have struck the hill or trees.

The second Med Flight unit has been taken out of service due to protocol. Other flight programs in the state will be referred to emergency calls, or ground services will be used.

______________________________________________________

UPDATE: University of Wisconsin Hospital spokesman says three people died when a UW Med Flight helicopter crashed after taking off Saturday night from La Crosse.

According to Wisconsin Emergency Management, the helicopter crashed off Smith Valley Road, which is east of La Crosse. This is in the town of Medary. It was discovered at around 8:45am.

UW press conference scheduled for 10:30am. NBC15 News will air it LIVE. The latest information will be posted immediately on NBC15.com.

______________________________________________________

A spokesperson for the UW-Hospital and Clinics tells us that the UW-Med Flight Helicopter is missing.

Spokesperson Don Cady says the helicopter dropped a patient off at a La-Crosse hospital (Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center) at about 10:30 last night.

It has not been heard from since.

The La Crosse County Sheriff's Department confirms deputies are conducting a search for the helicopter.

The UW-Hospital is notifying families about this situation. It is a three-person crew on board the flight.

Stay with NBC15 and NBC15.com for more information on this breaking story.

____________________________________________

More information on Med Flight

Details on the helicopter

From UWHealth.org:
In summer 2007, new technically advanced medical helicopters replaced UW Med Flight's two Italianbuilt Augusta Power 109 aircraft that served countless patients for nearly 10 years.

Specifically designed for air rescue, the new Eurocopter (EC 135) aircraft has come to be known as a workhorse in the emergency air transport industry.

Equipped with the most advanced air medical technology available, the low-noise and powerful twin-engine helicopter is highly maneuverable and features rear loading clam shell doors. The helicopters fly about 130 knots or 150 miles per hour. The weight limitation is approximately 350 lbs.

The new helicopters also include state-of-the-art avionics including GPS, moving map radar, SAT phones and a traffic collision avoidance system. Our pilots maintain IFR status, a rating that allows us to fly under FAA approved weather conditions that allow us to be more available throughout the year.

UW Med Flight is certified under instrument flight rules, not just visual flight rules in which the pilot must be able to see where they are going at all times. Instrument flying allows UW Med Flight to fly in less than ideal weather conditions.
Dr. Darren Bean
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Posted by: D Location: Madison on Jun 4, 2008 at 09:51 AM
Ralph you are exactly right thats what i have been saying, just because they didnt have the safety equipt on that chopper just so UW could try and spare a few bucks, The Pilot DID NOT know the terrain and w/o warning its kind of a given on what happened. Believe me there will probably be lawsuits agains UW health because of them tryin to pinch pennies now its gonna cost them more
Posted by: Sydney Reed Location: Park City, UT on Jun 1, 2008 at 12:14 AM
Our families knew Brian Schiller, Danielle Bean and their son Darren for over 25 years. Darren was a person passionate about life, and loved what he did. What a tragedy this is.
Posted by: Ralph Location: Waunakee on May 30, 2008 at 04:52 PM
Nickie: You realize that the cause of this accident is likely going to be pilot error. He may have been a good pilot but mistakes are made. The fact that the preliminary report indicated no mechanical problems leads one to believe that pilot error was the cause.
Posted by: D Location: Madison on May 24, 2008 at 06:19 PM
OH GET REAL NICKIE
Posted by: Nickie Location: Madison on May 23, 2008 at 11:28 AM
To D and Anon: Everyone needs to stop and think about what you write before you do. Families that are reading this and using this as a healing tool. To get you up to speed seeing you obviously have NOT been reading artices: To D This was NOT the pilots first time flying around lacrosse and if you knew him you would know that he was an excellent pilot and that all crew trusted him. 2nd to the rest of you regarding the saftey equipment. The 2 items that you are referring to are recommend but NOT manditory. Also know that the UW along with other medical helicopters are trying to get these but the MILITARY are first in line and that is why we don't have these items currently. Also know that it has been stated that even if they had them it would most likely wouldnt have made a difference in the outcome. REMEMBER!! MedFlight has been opperating in Madison for 23 years-this was the FIRST incident ever so STOP TRYING TO FIND BLAME! These 3 men risking their lives for people they didnt know!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 01:00 PM
much respect to the med flight crew that passed and the crew that is taking over.
Posted by: D Location: Madison on May 21, 2008 at 10:51 AM
I meant FAA instead of EAA
Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 10:32 PM
Sympathy yeah, yeah, it's very sad but don't forget this again like many other instances if they put the right equipment in to begin with this would not have happened.
Posted by: D Location: Madison on May 20, 2008 at 04:16 PM
Maybe we can get back to normal now, its going to be interesting what the EAA comes up with, I am just guessing myself the pilot didnt know the terrain and w/o the warning systems they didnt have caused the crash, I just hope UW learns not to skimp on equiptment now and risks other lives
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Jefferson on May 18, 2008 at 09:24 PM
I knew the pilot and all the sympathy is great, and I sympathize with all the family, firends, and co-workers as well, but nobody really knows how it happened and a black box would help us to better understand what happened but one and only one person really knows why it happened for sure and that was the pilot Steve Lipperer. It is a shame that something as horrific as this had to happen to these three successful men. R.I.P. Steve Lipperer, Dr. Darran Bean, and Mark Coyne.
Posted by: Michelle Location: Lake MIlls on May 15, 2008 at 01:50 PM
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILYS
Posted by: Lynn Location: Reedsburg on May 14, 2008 at 03:03 PM
What a loss to the UW hospital community and surrounding area. My son required Med Flight care in 200 following an accident. They took excellent care of Ty! Our family's prayers go out to our friends and professionals at the UW Hospital and Children's Hospital, and of course their families!
Posted by: jean Location: Montello, Wi on May 14, 2008 at 10:53 AM
I was a student of Mark Coyne's. I will miss him at the podium teaching and observing practical skill demonstrations at my next refresher. I will also miss his smile and sense of humor.
Posted by: FF Family member Location: Madison on May 14, 2008 at 08:58 AM
Do not ask why?, Do not ask how? If this was our plan, these 3 amazing men would still be with us. But this is not our plan, it is Gods. Out of every tragedy and heartache, somehow, from somewhere, we must find a meaning, something good, some hope. These dedicated men gave everyday of their lives never loking for a thank you. This is what they did, who they were, and they loved every minute. In their honor, we must take from this the example by which they lived their lives. Think of others first, give selflessly, but always put family first. We should all hold these men in example of how to live our own lives. In the short time God allowed these men to grace our lives, they have made a difference in the lives of thousands. What a legacy to leave behind. We are in awe! Thank you to the families who shared these wonderful men with us. Behind every brilliant man is an amazing woman and family. Please take peace in knowing your loved ones are in paradise and you will see them again. Peace.
Posted by: FF Friend Location: Madison on May 14, 2008 at 08:38 AM
Dr. Darren Bean was not only a part of my families life on aprofessional basis, but he also cared for our son when rushed tothe ER after an accident. It was a scary situation for us, but Dr. Bean came in and treated us like roalty caring for our son and and reassuring us constantly. This we soon learned was the norm for Dr. Bean. We have never forgotten his kindness and professionalism. The city of Madison should all be mourning the loss of this brilliant, skilled Dr. who gave so much, to sao many, in many, many ways. Our Hearts and Prayers are with all of the families.
Posted by: renee on May 13, 2008 at 10:11 PM
Med Flight helped save my life in 2005. I very much appreciate what the team does for people every day & risk their lives to do so. THANK YOU! You have ALL been in my thoughts & our entire churches prayers -right away Sunday morning, before it was out to the public we were praying. Take your time to heal & grieve!
Posted by: Jeff Location: Whitewater on May 13, 2008 at 07:55 PM
PRIDE! What a powerfull word. I had the unfortunate opportunity of bringing our brothers home today. During there ride home, construction workers paused and lowered there hats, people pulled over without hesitation. People paused on the streets and waved flags. Truly impressive. I'm proud to be associated with the fantastic team of Med Flight and the people of Wisconsin who recognizes the dangers we face on a daily basis.
Posted by: Heidi Location: Madison on May 13, 2008 at 06:13 PM
My sincere sympathy to the families,friends and co-workers of those dedicated exceptional men. Kudos to NBC15 for honoring the wishes of the families by saying they will not cover the memorial service for Dr. Bean and Mark Coyne as requested.
Posted by: FF/EMT/ Instructor on May 13, 2008 at 02:27 PM
To P and anyone else wanting to volunteer. Go to your local EMS unit and advise them you are wanting to become an EMT and they will point you in the correct direction. There are EMT classes starting this summer at MATC in Madison. You can also contact MATC for further information. It depends on the area you live in. Thank you for your interest in wanting to serve your community.
Posted by: t on May 13, 2008 at 10:19 AM
This is so sad. Between the endless potential of a young doctor, the skill of this pilot and the experience of the nurse, this was an immense, across the board loss to the amazing staff and crew of UW Hospital. We thank you ALL for your service.
Posted by: David Location: East Side - Madison on May 13, 2008 at 09:57 AM
My deepest sympathy for the friends and loved ones of these three extraordinary people, who helped so many.
Posted by: P Location: Madison on May 13, 2008 at 09:45 AM
My condolences to the family of the three who were aboard the Medflight helicopter! To Shaun and to FF/EMS instructor...can you provide some info on how we can become a volunteer EMT? I am interested in becoming an EMT volunteer!
Posted by: Mary Location: Madison on May 13, 2008 at 09:23 AM
To Mike in Bristol- If there was another pilot we would be most likely be remembering yet another fine person in the medical field. Please stop trying to find excuses. People need to realize that MedFlight has been operating in Madison for 22 years and this is the FIRST accident that they have had. I do not feel that any of these fine men would have gotten in the helicopter if they did not feel safe. These men our Madison's heros and lets keep it to that. You three will be deeply missed by all. Lift up your glasses cause we salute you fine men.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Sun Prairie on May 13, 2008 at 08:00 AM
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Darren,Mark and Steve.God be with you.
Posted by: shaun Location: Jefferson on May 12, 2008 at 11:02 PM
To anyone who feels the need to use this tragedy to post a negative comment regarding Med Flight is heartless, this is not about $ or Med Flight it is about 3 dedicated individuals who lost their lives. I am a full time and volunteer firefighter/Emt and I put my life on the line for people I do not know every time I am called to service. It is not about the recognition but about the passion of helping people and there is also the side of the job when we can not help no matter how hard we try. I personally have been involved in situations with Med Flight crews and their dedication and skill in the medical aspect and the flying skill of setting the helicopter in places that are not meant for them is amazing. This tragedy affects me personally because Mark Coyne is a relative of mine and was my EMT instructor. I personally knew Steve Lipperer from Med Flight calls and through his family. I did not know Dr. Bean but from what I have read he was a very intelligent dr and professor.
Posted by: ** Location: ** on May 12, 2008 at 09:21 PM
Please ignore the negative comments and let us remember that this is a forum for memorializing the three men who are no longer with us. God Speed, gentlemen. You are heroes in the eyes of countless individuals. May your family and friends find comfort in the words of so many whom you have taught and treated. Your legacy has been left for your students to continue your teachings providing excellent care to those who need it.
Posted by: Adam Location: Fitchburg on May 12, 2008 at 09:12 PM
It takes a special type of person to dedicate their lives to saving others. It takes another special type of person to dedicate their lives to emergency services. I've been around the Med Flight program since inception (my father is Mark Hanson) and have also seen these people in action on the front lines as well. I am very proud that I have met and known so many of these heroes. My thoughts and prayers go out to Darren, Mark and Steve's family as well as the extended Med Flight family that has grown into the thousands over the last 23 years. They will be deeply missed.
Posted by: Verna Location: Monee IL on May 12, 2008 at 07:23 PM
I am so very sorry for UW's lost. These men put there lifes on the line with every flight they go on. I know that God was there as a co-pilot, and show them the way home. May God's Love help us to understand why it happened and help the family's too. God be with all of you at UW Life Flight.
Posted by: Ken Location: Watertown on May 12, 2008 at 07:22 PM
This is a tragic loss which will be felt by hundreds of people all over the state. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Mark, Darren and Steve. I have known Mark for 20 years. He has been an instructor of mine from the time I was an EMT through the time I became Paramedic. I was privileged to have been a student of Mark and work along side of him at incidents when Med Flight was called. Every time I would see Mark he would always be smiling and have something witty to say that would always start out with (" hey fly boy"...). Mark was a great friend and I will miss him dearly.
Posted by: FF/EMT, Instructor on May 12, 2008 at 07:09 PM
This is a tragic time in the life of all who knew these men. They sacrificed their lives for others everytime they got in the copter. To all the public safety members that have worked to help in this situation & all others you are in our thoughts. As a fellow EMT & instructor who knew Mark for many years it is a sad time for all of us. To those of you who are make negative comments I hope & pray you never need any of our services. These people save lives as they put theirs on the line. I am sure none of you making those comments have ever had the skill or the guts to even step up & help someone you do not even know in the time of need. My thoughts are with the family, friends, responders, dispatchers & all those that serve their communities in one way or another. I have been serving my community for over 20 years and intend on doing so as long as God gives me the will to. Thank you all for what you do.
Posted by: Oregon Area Fire/EMS District Location: Oregon WI on May 12, 2008 at 07:03 PM
From all of us at the Oregon Area Fire/EMS District, our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Bean, Steve Lipperer, and Mark Coyne. Some of our members had the chance to know and work with this crew on many occasions. These 3 will be missed. May they rest in peace.
Posted by: Dennis Beebe Location: Boscobel,WI on May 12, 2008 at 06:22 PM
In May 2006 I suffered a major bleed in the brain(stroke)and was tranported to UW Hospital by MedFlight.Through it all the were all very warm,professional and caring thus reassuring me at a terrible moment in my life that I was in good hands.The next nite as I lay sleeping at the hospital I was told the crew stopped by to visit me and finding me asleep they chose not to awaken but when I awoke in the morning found a UW MedFlight tee shirt laying neatly folded on my table.I was told by hospital staff the tee shirts were considered hot items at the hospital and hard to come by.Indeed later it came up missing but the crew promptly replaced it when I was also given a private showing of the aircraft and hanger facilities.I will be forever grateful to these beautiful people and my prayers go out to their families and loved ones-and may God bless them all for the work they have done and continue to do.
Posted by: Becky Location: Baraboo on May 12, 2008 at 06:22 PM
This dedicated team of indivuals will be greatly missed by our community. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this of each person who lost their lives during this traumatic event. I'm so thankful that the UW med flight team saved my life while suffering from bacterial meningitis.
Posted by: unknown Location: madison on May 12, 2008 at 06:20 PM
today are ems family has suffered a great loss. I had Mark many times for EMS class. His dedication was amazing. just knowing all of the lives he has touched and the students he has taught. his hard work and dedication will continue to shine with the numerous of individuals he has taught. Dr bean was a very inspirational teacher to steve my prayers are with your family
Posted by: Janet Location: Portage on May 12, 2008 at 06:15 PM
To emphasize & clarify the main points of my my other comment's meaning . . . political statements and poor me statements have no place in this discussion. Families and friends have lost loved ones and deserve our support. No whining or thinking of ourselves seems appropriate regardless of how much change our health care system needs. Our family lost six people this past year and one half and made regular use of Med Flight. As a former EMT/RN myself and as my late niece who was a Paramedic during her short 38 years and was a regular Flight For Life professional, we know what it means to go out at your own risk to help others. It is something you either have in your heart and your gut or not. Thank you to these families for sharing their loved ones with all of us who have needed them. May each family find peace and support! God's Blessings!
Posted by: Mary T, on May 12, 2008 at 02:55 PM
I worked at St. Marys and was involved with meeting med flight when they came in and I WAS WORKING. I MET MARK WAY BACK WHEN? I asked him if he was from around here as his last name "COYNE" was my mother's maiden name he was noyt from bhere but we met on several occassions
Posted by: b Location: madison on May 12, 2008 at 02:06 PM
My aunt's life was saved by these heroes. I am grateful they were there when shes needed them. I hope there familes find peace in knowing that they died doing what they loved. I can't think of a better way to go. Thanks for all you gave up to save us.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Monona,Wi on May 12, 2008 at 01:53 PM
What a Tragedy, my thoughts and prayers go out to all the families,friends, co-workers and aquantinces that new these three fine men. As for all the post comments by the people that are showing no solace for the hero's who have helped make a difference "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing," Luke 23:34 For Darren Bean, Mark Coyne, & Steve Lipperer "Christ is our Star of Hope. No other star ever pointed a man into so safe a harbor." Talmage Quietly You lead me to an open place; Hold me in the stillness 'til I see Your face. Waiting in the silence as You speak my name, Rising like an eagle I will fly. from "Sweet Victory" God Bless, you all are in my prayers!
Posted by: tyler Location: stoguthon on May 12, 2008 at 01:21 PM
hey that is very sad wat happened to all these people they did if for people . i hope the rip rest in peace
Posted by: Janet Location: Portage on May 12, 2008 at 12:42 PM
To those who turn the attention away from the tragic deaths of three fine people to dollars I can only say, "Shame on you.!" Equal access to affordable health care is a totally different subject all together from the tragic accident and the loss of life. There are many people including myself who can no longer afford health insurance coverage even through the HIRSP program, but until the whole health care system is revised there will always be the "haves" and the "have nots" as far as their decisions to access care. When a person isn't insured or is underinsured and faces the quick legal action taken by most health care facilities we don't always show our best side. Members of our family have worked on ground and air ambulance crews and our respect for the work is tremendous. UW Med Flight has carried precious people in our famliy and in our circle of friends and they were such a blessings to us. Our hearts and prayers go to these families. God bless!!
Posted by: MIKE Location: BRISTOL on May 12, 2008 at 11:38 AM
You could cut the horrendous accident rate of medivac helos to almost nothing by adding a second pilot.
Posted by: Anon Location: Madison on May 12, 2008 at 10:52 AM
It is wonderful to see someone acknowledge the dispatcher. They are too easily forgotten in something like this. It had to be terrible wondering what happened to his friends & coworkers and be stuck in an office so far away. I pray that he is able to know he had a vital role in the search for the accident scene. It is also important to note how vital the pilot is in all of this as well. Without he pilot these flights would never happen. The training they go through and the experience they bring is so vital. I do hope that people will not speculate on if this a person's fault or what happened. There are so many factors involved, maybe it was human error, maybe it was weather, maybe it was mechanical - we don't know and won't know until the facts are brought forward by the professionals investigating this tragedy. Use this time to provide support for the families, friends and collegues. The support provided through here is very touching and healing for all effected.
Posted by: Gold Cross Ambulance Service Location: Menasha on May 12, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the three brave men who lost their lives in this tragic event.
Posted by: Candy Location: Jefferson on May 12, 2008 at 09:44 AM
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families, as neighbors to Steves brother Jeff, we had the opportunity to know Steve, and rest assured he died doing what he loved. Our deepest sympathies to Desiree, Ray, Diane, Jeff, Jodi, Corey, Nathan and Greg. We love you guys!!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 09:21 AM
Over the past two days we have all thought about Darren, Mark & Steve, along with the FAA and police who searched for our friends, but we have forgotten one other hero: our Med Flight dispatcher Bill. Bill has dispatched for Med Flight for 18 years. He spent 8hrs of his 12 hr shift searching for his friends right beside everyone else, only he did this from a small room on the seventh floor. It was Bill's quick thinking and skilled work that got the search underway so quickly and efficiently. It was also Bill who had the brilliant idea of calling the cell phones so the police could trace the calls, causing hits on the calls which helped to narrow the search enough to find our men. Thank you Bill!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 09:19 AM
mayb i missed it here but on msnbc they say the pilot was flying without navigational equipment, and did not know why. Why would he do that?? truely tragic. RIP
Posted by: Toby Location: TN on May 12, 2008 at 09:19 AM
There are an incredible number of comments below regarding the medical personnel and the people who lives they impacted, and rightly so. There are far fewer responses about the pilot, other than the majority which state "I didn't know him." It is sometimes forgotten that the pilot is also a vital part of any crew, often in the background, not high profile, but there just doing his job, quietly, competently, flight after flight, making decisions that affect the lives of all, patients and crews. In future, perhaps we should spare a moment or a thought for the pilots as we visit the facilities and maybe take a moment to introduce ourselves to them and say "thanks." Our thoughts are with them all, for everytime they lifted and gave something back.
Posted by: Fire fighters wife Location: Lake Mills on May 12, 2008 at 08:37 AM
My heart goes out to the families of these brave souls. My husband is on the fire dept. and said to me that he knew some of these men and is deeply saddened by this accident. They work so close to these men at times that it will be hard to adjust. Our family will be keeping the families in our prayers.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 08:35 AM
To Phillip Koenig-stop med flight? These three men sacrificed their lives doing what they loved and were very passionate about. Can you imagine what they must be thinking of your comment. They didn't TRY to save one life, they did save that life and thousands more over the years. Med Flight will never end and never stop saving our lives. GO MED FLIGHT!!
Posted by: Roni Location: Juneau on May 12, 2008 at 07:31 AM
My heart and prayers go out to the families of the crash victims. I personally knew Steve, (my sister is his sister-in-law), and he was a wonderful person. My deepest condolensences to to his wife, Desiree, his parents Ray and Diane, his brothers, Jeff and his wife Jodi, and Greg, and his nephews, Corey and Nathan. Love to you all and God be with you.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Blooming Grove on May 12, 2008 at 07:05 AM
To borrow lyrics from Willie Nelson, "Ain't nothin quite as sad as watching your heroes die." These three positively impacted those that had the honor of Learning from and working with this fine team at UW. My heart goes out to the families and the UW family, as well as our entire community, as this was an enormous loss to all of us. I pray that the rest of you will stay strong, focused and committed to the heroic acts you perform each and every day. Mark, Darrel and Steve with live on in all of you because of the role models they provided for the EMS students and seasoned staff alike. May they rest in peace and may the gift of time lessen the pain of this tragic loss. My prayers and thanks to you all for all that you are and do. I'm very proud to be the mother of three UW ER staff that were mentored by these exemplary men.
Posted by: Fire fighter Location: Lancaster WI on May 12, 2008 at 01:10 AM
My heart goes out to the families and all the med flight crews. You saved my grandfather when I was younger. I am now a fire fighter in Lancaster and what you do for our area is amazing. You have saved so many lives. You are like guardian angels. Without this service more people would not be here. To see this helicopter come in, you know that the patient is going to receive the best care in the world. May God bless the families and everyone of the crews that fly again. Keep up the tremendous work!!
Posted by: Med Flight Pilot Location: Madison on May 12, 2008 at 12:58 AM
Thank you for all your thoughts, prayers and words of support. I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friends and the void that they left will never be filled. Rest assured that we will do what we can to be up and running as soon as safely possible to come to the aid of those who need us. I know that is what Steve, Darren, and Mark would want us to do.
Posted by: Curtis Ambulance Location: Madison on May 11, 2008 at 11:30 PM
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and co-workers of this horrible event.
Posted by: Stephanie Lane Location: Baraboo on May 11, 2008 at 11:11 PM
I have had the honor and privilege of working with Darren and Mark at UW Hospital and St. Mary's. The impact to the entire MEDICAL (pre-hospital and hospital) community in the area is catastrophic. My thoughts and prayers go out to Darren's wife and children, his family, his friends, and the professionals who've worked along side him during his career. Anyone can attest to Darren's ability to impact your life, he was truly a phenomenal individual. My thoughts are with Marks family during this time, as you have pointed out I am sure that Mark wouldn't have wanted to go any other way than doing the work that he has profoundly poured his heart and life's work into. Steve, I've only met in passing, but his sacrifice to this profession does not go unrecognized as it takes a "hero" to do hero's work. May you all rest in peace! God bless those still on this earth dealing with this tragedy may you find comfort and love during these dark days.
Posted by: corrina kosharek Location: avoca wis on May 11, 2008 at 10:53 PM
I have work at the uw hospital with our dad for 12 years dad died in 2004 and every one at at med flight who work with us were great they even had reqsted that we keep doing the snow crew depament and we for meny years every one on the med flight crew didn't treat us like custodains they treat us like family this is a sad day for the UW family my hearts go out to not only the me flight staff,family ,frinds and to all the UW staff who lost 3members of our family in closing thank for all the lives you help to save you 3 will be depealy misst DARREN BEAN,MARK LOYNE and STEVE LIPPER sisrely CORRINA kosharek
Posted by: Brodhead Area EMS Location: Brodhead on May 11, 2008 at 10:38 PM
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these very brave men. You have helped to advance pre-hospital medical care to levels we could only dream of. May your memories bring you comfort in time.
Posted by: Don & Debbie Location: Beaver Dam on May 11, 2008 at 10:26 PM
They saved lives, they risked their own everyday at work, they were absolutely professional and exceptionally talented. Our prayers to family, friends and co-workers, we will never be the same. It was such an honor know them. They made such an impact in Emergency Medicine. We may never know how many lives they touched.
Posted by: Rebecka Location: DeForest on May 11, 2008 at 10:25 PM
Mark Coyne is gonna be truly missed by all who knew him!! He was there for his students and anyone who needed help! He cared and loved life and loved working on med flight! In class we heard about it all the time he was very proud to be a part of the med-flight system and a teacher in E.M.S. He and the others are a great loss and my prayers go out to their families in this tragedy!! We are gonna go to National Regisries tomorrow and follow through with all we were taught and I know his spirit will be watching over us!!
Posted by: Lyndsey Location: Omaha, NE on May 11, 2008 at 10:12 PM
My thoughts and prayers and with the victims family, friends, and co-workers.
Posted by: Stefanie Location: Madison on May 11, 2008 at 09:49 PM
My sincerest and most heart felt sympathy to all the family, friends and co-workers of these three men. What a tremendous loss. May God bless you all.
Posted by: * Location: Madison on May 11, 2008 at 09:47 PM
I cannot begin to express how tragic this is. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Mark or Steve, but I have worked with Dr. Bean numerous times in several of the recent changes coming to EMS in the near future. He was a phenomenal teacher. The passion Dr. Bean had for his career and his excitement for the improvments coming to the EMS world was contagious. It is a great tragedy to lose him, not only in the EMS world, but for his family and friends even more so. My prayers and thoughts are with all of the families and friends of these men. Dr. Bean will be greatly missed in the UW ER which is where I crossed paths with him the most. God Bless all EMS/public service people who know the dangers that are faced everyday we go to work to help others.
Posted by: Gene Location: Monroe on May 11, 2008 at 09:43 PM
God just got a GREAT Med-Flight crew! Bless you three for all you have done in your short time here on Earth. God speed...
Posted by: Anonymous on May 11, 2008 at 09:36 PM
My deepest sympathies go out to the families of these three heroes. I have worked with them on scenes many, many times. Dr. Bean had unending patience and respect for each and every member of EMS. He never came on a scene without a kind word and a thank you for everyone's efforts; and Mark was a mentor of mine from many years back when I was new to EMS. I will miss him deeply and will always remember the fun and interesting ways he taught us the skills we need to be in the field every day helping those in need. I am proud to say that I am a member of EMS, and because of Mark, I can say that I have learned so many things from one of life's greatest and gifted teachers. Mark--you were always there to answer questions, push me when I needed it, and teach with unending patience. You will never be forgotten and I will cherish the lessons you taught me. Anyone who has worked with you, or known you, is truly blessed. I hope to see you again one day in your tropical paradise.
Posted by: Jodi Location: Monee IL on May 11, 2008 at 09:27 PM
No one knows why the good ones are taken. My prayers to the staff and families of these men.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 11, 2008 at 09:20 PM
This is so sad for these families. Three years ago they flew my daughter to the UW for emergency surgery which saved her life. How I wish they had been as fortunate. I will be thinking of them.
Posted by: volunteer Location: madison on May 11, 2008 at 09:12 PM
Having been a student of Mark many times he will be greatly missed he always was ready to help and you always knew that if you made it out of his class you were ready for the challenge. He was tough but only because he was so passionate about get you to be the best you could. On the other side he was on duty the night we needed med flight for a firefighter and during the long weeks we spent in TLC at the UW he would come in and sit with me in the middle of the night and hold my hand when it was tough to have hope he helped find it. God speed Mark I hope you are flying high where ever you are.
Posted by: Kari Location: Waunakee on May 11, 2008 at 09:03 PM
Heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of all three gentlemen involved in this tragedy. This is a monumental loss to healthcare and humanity, and their selfless acts of heroism will not be forgotten.
Posted by: Cambridge EMS on May 11, 2008 at 08:53 PM
It is with great pain we hear of the loss of three of our own. So many times we have worked or learned from these people, all will leave a lasting impression on the EMS community as well as the hundreds of lives they have touched.
Posted by: Philip Koenig Location: Madison, WI on May 11, 2008 at 08:30 PM
Stop Med Flight. Three peoples lives aren't worth the one they tried to save.
Posted by: Patty Location: Argyle EMS Argyle, WI on May 11, 2008 at 08:30 PM
Argyle EMS would like to send our prayers and sympathy to the families and co-workers. Argyle EMS was curren