On Thursday, March 6th, the Lake Crystal community was struck by an unthinkable tragedy. We lost one of our own, a dedicated volunteer with the Lake Crystal Area Ambulance Service, Hunter Johnson. Hunter’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him, and the grief has reverberated throughout our tight-knit community. It was with heavy hearts that we learned that his death has been ruled a suicide, a fact that has stunned his fellow volunteers and all who knew him. Hunter’s loss has created a profound sense of disbelief, and we are left to mourn someone who was not only a kind-hearted soul but a shining example of what it means to give selflessly to others.
Hunter’s time with the Lake Crystal Area Ambulance Service, though short, had a significant impact on the team and the community. His passion for helping others was evident from the moment he joined. He dreamed of becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and his enthusiasm for the work he was doing was inspiring. Whether on a shift or during his EMT classes, Hunter demonstrated a level of commitment and determination that set him apart. He was always eager to learn, always striving to be better, and always willing to offer a helping hand to his fellow volunteers. His energy and determination made him stand out, and it was clear to everyone who worked with him that Hunter was on the path to becoming an excellent EMT.
For those who had the privilege of working alongside Hunter, it’s hard to imagine the team without him. He wasn’t just a volunteer; he was a friend, a confidante, and a source of comfort during some of the toughest moments. The work of an EMT is not easy—every shift can bring with it high-stakes emergencies, life-or-death situations, and emotionally intense encounters. But despite the stresses of the job, Hunter’s infectious personality helped lighten the mood. His laughter, his sense of humor, and his caring nature were a balm to his teammates during these trying moments. Whether it was offering a comforting word to a colleague, or making a patient feel at ease with his gentle demeanor, Hunter’s presence was invaluable.
One of the most striking things about Hunter was how he made people feel. He had a remarkable ability to connect with others, whether they were coworkers, patients, or even strangers. He had a way of offering a smile or a kind word when it was most needed, and he seemed to have an uncanny ability to know when someone needed to talk, or when they just needed to hear that everything would be okay. Hunter was always there to listen, to comfort, and to lend a helping hand—his compassion for others was boundless. His colleagues remember him not just as a volunteer, but as someone who brought warmth and hope to every situation.
While Hunter’s death has left a deep sadness in the community, it also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. For many, Hunter was the last person they would have expected to face such internal struggles. He was always so joyful, so full of life, and always so ready to support others. But like so many others, Hunter was dealing with challenges that weren’t immediately visible to those around him. Mental health issues often remain hidden, and even the most joyful individuals can be silently battling their own demons. Hunter’s passing shines a spotlight on the reality of mental health struggles and reminds us that we must do more to support one another, especially in our most difficult moments.
The tragedy of Hunter’s death highlights the urgent need for more open conversations about mental health, particularly within high-stress professions like emergency medical services. First responders, including EMTs and paramedics, often work in environments where emotional and psychological stress can take a heavy toll. The mental health challenges faced by those in the field can be exacerbated by the nature of the work itself—dealing with trauma, loss, and high-pressure situations on a daily basis. And while many are quick to offer physical help to those in need, the mental and emotional health of our first responders often goes unaddressed.
It’s vital that we recognize the importance of mental health support for everyone, especially for those in service professions. Hunter’s story is a tragic reminder that mental health struggles don’t discriminate—they can affect anyone, regardless of how strong or capable they may seem on the outside. That’s why it’s so important for us to create an environment where mental health care is prioritized and where people feel safe seeking help. Whether it’s offering emotional support to a colleague, encouraging someone to seek therapy, or simply checking in with a friend, we can all play a role in ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.
For those who are struggling, there are resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) provides confidential, 24/7 support to anyone in crisis, and the EMS Helpline (1-888-731-3473) is specifically for first responders in need of support. There are also local support groups, mental health professionals, and counselors who can offer help to those facing emotional and psychological challenges. Reaching out is the first step toward healing, and we must work together to make sure that those who are suffering know that help is available and that it’s okay to ask for support.
As the Lake Crystal community mourns the loss of Hunter Johnson, we also come together to honor his memory. His kindness, compassion, and dedication will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he helped, the patients he assisted, and the countless colleagues who will always remember him as a bright light in their lives. Though he is no longer with us, his impact continues to be felt in the hearts of his friends, family, and the entire community.
In Hunter’s memory, we must continue to talk openly about mental health, support those who are struggling, and work to break the stigma surrounding mental health care. Let’s honor Hunter by continuing his work—by reaching out to those in need, by offering kindness and support, and by ensuring that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Hunter’s passing leaves an irreplaceable hole in our hearts, but it also leaves us with the invaluable lessons of compassion, kindness, and the importance of checking in on one another. He was more than just a volunteer; he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of hope. As we grieve his loss, we also celebrate the incredible impact he had on the lives of everyone around him. May his spirit live on in all of us, and may we carry forward the kindness and generosity that he so freely gave.
