(West Fargo, ND) -- We have learned the name of the officer who died from a medical emergency yesterday afternoon at West Fargo Police Headquarters. According to a statement from the department, Lieutenant Adam Gustafson died on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 18, 2021, from complications from a severe coronary artery disease and major arterial blockage, causing a sudden fatal heart attack.
Fellow officers and West Fargo Firefighters rendered initial care until F-M Ambulance Service arrived and began advanced life support, including transporting him to Sanford Emergency Department. Lieutenant Gustafson later died in the hospital.
Lieutenant Gustafson has been a crucial part of the department for over 10 years. He worked his way up the ranks within the West Fargo Police Department and was most recently promoted to Lieutenant, serving in the Patrol Division, since 2018.
“Lieutenant Gustafson will be remembered for his contagious smile and laughter, along with his dedication, teamwork and service to the City of West Fargo,” said Chief of Police Denis Otterness. “Lieutenant Gustafson has made a lasting impact within our department and he will never be forgotten.”
The department’s thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Lieutenant Gustafson. A memorial honoring Lieutenant Gustafson has been set up in the public lobby of the West Fargo City Hall’s Grand Foyer (800 Fourth Ave. E., Suite # 1).
The West Fargo Police Department is currently being assisted with calls for service by the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Fargo Police Department and the North Dakota Highway Patrol while members of our department process this tragic loss. Updates on Lieutenant Adam Gustafson’s memorial service will be announced at a later date.