Firefighter Mikko Saastamoinen remembered during silent demonstration in Kangasniemi

Mikko Saastamoinen, a firefighter, tragically passed away on October 1 during a bicycle ride in Kangasniemi when he was struck by a drunk driver. The driver is being investigated for aggravated driving under the influence and drug-related offenses. In honor of Saastamoinen’s memory and to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while intoxicated, the rescue community held a silent demonstration on Wednesday evening. Emergency vehicles across the country paused for five minutes at 6 PM.

Saastamoinen worked for the South Karelia Rescue Service and was employed by the South Savo Rescue Service in Kangasniemi. He was also internationally recognized in the field. His death has deeply affected many, with dozens gathering for the demonstration in the small town of Kangasniemi.

Tuomo Halmeslahti, the South Savo rescue chief, shared during the event that it’s sobering how quickly life can change. “Just a few seconds could have made a difference,” he noted. Despite the somber occasion, he described the gathering as memorable and warm.

Seppo Lokka, head of the rescue and safety services in South Savo, stated that the demonstration reached participants across Europe, including the fire brigades of Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and France. Some of Saastamoinen’s colleagues around the world paid tribute by wearing reflective vests during their commutes.

Saastamoinen was named Firefighter of the Year in 2020 and contributed to training colleagues both domestically and internationally. He is survived by his partner and five children. According to Statistics Finland, this year has seen six fatalities involving intoxicated drivers, with a total of 1,758 traffic accidents resulting in personal injury.