The Stone Park fire engine struck the side of the Northlake engine just behind the cab and sent the engine into a 320 degree spin. The Stone Park engine, however, rolled onto its side and the impact threw Bergstrom through the vehicle’s windshield and into the street. The impact crushed the front of the Stone Park fire engine and pinned the driver between the seat and the dashboard. A third Stone Park firefighter experienced minor injuries, as did the three Northlake firefighters from the other engine. All of the firefighters were transported to local hospitals, but Bergstrom was pronounced dead on arrival.

In addition to serving as a part-time firefighter and paramedic for the Stone Park Fire Department, Bergstrom was also a paramedic for Ambulance Company 44 of the Chicago Fire Department.

Beloved son of Fay and the late Charles; loving brother of Jennifer (Jeremiah) Brainerd; dear uncle of Sydney.