A wildland firefighter from Ontario was fatally injured on Friday while helping battle the largest wildfire in B.C. history.
“He was transported by helicopter to the Fort St. John airport,” said RCMP, “but sadly succumbed to his injuries while en route.”
Police said the events surrounding the man’s death are being investigated by several agencies, including WorkSafeBC and the BC Coroners Service. He was working for a private B.C. company.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this young man, as well as to his fellow firefighters,” said the RCMP.
B.C. Premier David Eby issued a statement on Saturday afternoon, saying the firefighter died while helping battle the Donnie Creek wildfire.
Burning in the Prince George Fire Centre, the Donnie Creek blaze is the largest wildfire in provincial history at a stunning 583,153 hectares — double the size of Metro Vancouver at an estimated 288,000 hectares.
“I am devastated to learn that we have lost another wildfire fighter. My heart goes out to the family, friends and colleagues of this front-line hero. On behalf of all British Columbians, we grieve this terrible news with you,” said Eby.
“This tragic news, coming so soon after the death of Devyn Gale, has shaken people throughout B.C. and is devastating for so many of those in the woods bravely fighting wildfires right now. Every worker expects and deserves to return home safely to family and friends.
“This wildfire season has been profoundly awful. We are so grateful to this firefighter and all of our firefighters for their daily heroism. This tragic news reminds us yet again of the extraordinary sacrifices they make to keep us safe.”
B.C.’s Minister of Forests, Bruce Ralston, also provided a statement regarding the death.
“I have been informed that a firefighter assisting BC Wildfire Service crews passed away due to injuries sustained while working on the Donnie Creek wildfire,” he said.
