Emmet County, Michigan — Cheers to Sergeant Dennis Wagner of The Michigan State Police St. Ignace Post who assisted in a life-saving response while off duty at Nub’s Nob Ski Resort.
On January 3, 2026, Sergeant Wagner was cross-country skiing when he observed a skier collapse on the trail. He assisted Nub’s Nob cross-country ski patroller Steve Biggs, who had begun providing care, along with several bystanders. Sergeant Wagner helped position the individual, opened the airway, and initiated chest compressions.
Nub’s Nob Ski Patrol arrived with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), oxygen, and transport equipment. The AED delivered two shocks while CPR continued, and oxygen was administered. Sergeant Wagner assisted with transferring the individual into a toboggan for transport to the ski patrol room.
Emmet County EMS assumed care upon arrival. The individual had regained a pulse and was breathing and was transported to McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital for further treatment. Medical staff later confirmed that early CPR and AED use were critical. The individual, Kevin Livingston is doing well, and expected to make a full recovery.
Sergeant Wagner is a longtime Michigan State Police first aid instructor who provides ongoing training to department members. Michigan State Police thanked the bystanders, Nub’s Nob Ski Patrol, Emmet County EMS, and McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital staff for their coordinated response and gave a special shout out to Sergeant Dennis Wagner for his role in the response.
“Whether on duty or enjoying time off, troopers are trained and prepared to save lives. Well done, Sergeant. Wagner!” -Michigan State Police
