Maxwell J. Bayer Obituary, Death – A firefighter from Racine County tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Walworth County on Thursday, October 10. The incident occurred at approximately 12:28 p.m. when the Walworth County Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a collision between a motorcycle and an automobile at the intersection of County Highway D and Townline Road, located near the entrance to Alpine Valley.
Upon arrival at the scene, deputies and members of the East Troy Fire Department discovered the motorcyclist in a northwest ditch. The victim was identified as 31-year-old Maxwell J. Bayer, a resident of Franksville, Wisconsin. Efforts to perform life-saving measures were initiated by deputies, who then transported Bayer to the East Troy Fire Department.
From there, Bayer was taken to the East Troy Municipal Airport, where a Flight For Life helicopter was on standby to provide further medical assistance. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, Bayer did not survive the transfer and was pronounced dead at the airport.
In a press release, authorities expressed their condolences to the City of Racine Fire Department and the Raymond Fire Department, acknowledging Bayer’s dedication to serving the citizens of Racine County as a firefighter in both communities.
The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office shared a video on Facebook depicting a procession of police and fire vehicles honoring the fallen firefighter.
The Raymond Fire & Rescue Department also addressed the tragedy on their Facebook page, stating, “Raymond Fire and Rescue Department is deeply saddened to confirm that 14-year member and Captain, Maxwell Bayer, 31, has passed away.” They requested that the community keep Bayer’s family and the fire department family in their thoughts as they cope with the profound loss of their brother and friend.
The Racine Fire Department issued a statement reflecting on Bayer’s passing, expressing deep sorrow over the unexpected loss of Firefighter Max Bayer, who died in Walworth County as a result of the traffic accident while off duty. They highlighted his age of 31 and noted that the incident is currently under investigation by the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office.
Bayer joined the Racine Fire Department on March 9, 2023, quickly becoming a cherished member known for his positive demeanor and infectious smile. He was a part of the Hazardous Materials Response Team and demonstrated a strong eagerness to learn and contribute in any way possible while at the fire station.
Prior to his time with the Racine Fire Department, Bayer served for 14 years with the Raymond Fire and Rescue Department, eventually becoming a captain. He was described as not only an excellent firefighter and EMT but also as an outstanding person who dedicated some of his off-duty hours to fundraising for charities associated with both Racine and Raymond firefighters. His loss will resonate throughout both fire departments and the broader community for years to come.
The families of Bayer, along with the Raymond Fire and Rescue and Racine Fire Departments, have requested privacy as they support one another during this challenging time. Consequently, no further details will be disclosed at this point, and funeral arrangements have yet to be finalized.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. The driver of the vehicle involved is a 17-year-old male from Eagle, who fortunately did not sustain any injuries and is fully cooperating with the investigation.
The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office has received assistance from various agencies, including the East Troy Fire Department, Flight For Life, Walworth County Medical Examiner, and the Walworth County Highway Department. The case remains open and is being thoroughly investigated by deputies from the Walworth County Crash Investigation Unit.