Tolland Mourning Loss Of Longtime Public Safety Officer

TOLLAND, CT — Tolland is mourning the loss of a longtime public servant.

Tolland Fire Department officials Sunday announced the passing of Capt. Dennis Carlson. He was a first responder in town for more than three decades.

Here is the announcement:

"It is with an extremely heavy heart that the Tolland Fire Department shares with our community the unexpected passing of Captain Dennis Carlson. Captain Carlson has been with the department for 34 years, starting first as a volunteer, then transitioning over to a full-time public safety officer, eventually earning the rank of Captain.

"He has touched our community in many ways, both as an emergency responder serving as a firefighter, EMT, and rescue dive team scuba diver, as well as an educator in our schools teaching fire prevention and basic aid Training.

"His loss leaves a tremendous hole in our organization’s heart. During this difficult time, please keep Captain Carlson’s family in your thoughts and prayers."

Tolland Town Manager Brian Foley called Carlson's passing, "a very sad and painful time for our entire community."

Foley added, "We are stunned with the loss of Captain Carlson on so many levels. He gave so much to our community and touched & saved so many lives. Our first responders endure a lot, but this pain is beyond words. "