Duluth Firefighter Visits Dept. After Being Hit By Vehicle While Jogging

The firefighter will now continue his rehabilitation journey in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — For Duluth Firefighter Raymond Skoglund, his return home was filled with reunions and smiles.

“It feels good to be home, I couldn’t stop smiling when I came to Duluth again,” said Skoglund.

But the story started back in January– the then 24-year-old was out for a run when he was hit by a car and left severely injured.

Two weeks after the incident, Skoglund was transported to Craig Hospital in Denver, Colorado, where he began his rehab journey.

Now, five months later he was welcomed home by friends and family.

‘It feels great, I feel very lucky to be here and all of the support that I’ve been given is amazing,” said Skoglund.

Skoglund, who is also a member of the Minnesota Air National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing was additionally welcomed back by his firefighter buddies and Fighter Wing peers.

“Seeing Ray’s progress through his healing process and being back here with everybody in very good spirits is amazing for all of us,” said Chase Bergstedt

Skoglund suffered a broken jaw, broken legs, internal swelling, and a fractured vertebra, amongst other injuries.

But he has since made an incredible recovery and is even returning to his old exercising hobbies. Such as rock climbing and working out.

“Well, I’ve been very fortunate to have lots of support and prayers given to me,” said Skoglund. “And you just have to work hard and listen to the people that are helping you out, and be very thankful and positive.”

Skoglund says he will be continuing his recovery here in the Northland, and also says he has plans to talk to his Fire Chief about getting back to work.