U.S. paramedic killed in Ukraine after ambulance shelled
Pete Reed, a former Marine, was evacuating civilians in the city of Bakhmut at the time of his death
By Rachel Engel
EMS1
UKRAINE — An American paramedic was killed while working on the ground in Ukraine amid the Russian army’s invasion, KOMO News reported.
Pete Reed, a former Marine, was helping evacuate citizens in the city of Bakhmut, when he came under attack.
The ambulance he was assigned to was shelled.
During the incident, Reed reportedly saved a colleague by shielding them with his own body.
That kind of action was par for the course for Reed, says his widow, Alex Potter.
“The idea of people getting hurt weighed heavily on him, so I think it came very naturally to him,” she said. “He was so compassionate. He just wanted to help people.”
Pete Reed, American medic killed in Ukraine: 'He just wanted to help people'. NAEMT extends condolences to Pete's family and friends. We will not forget his service or sacrifice... https://t.co/P2z7mtbh7k pic.twitter.com/sCcZgGrnTA
— Nat'l Assoc of EMTs (@NAEMT_) February 6, 2023
Tammy and I are deeply saddened by the death of Pete Reed, a humanitarian worker and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was killed while aiding the evacuation of Ukrainian civilians.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) February 4, 2023
Pete will be remembered for the depth of his courage, compassion, and sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/uyaZkSHptw