A firefighter has died fighting the out-of-control wildfire complex burning in Jasper National Park.
RCMP say around 2:15 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, officers were notified of an Alberta Wildland fire employee who sustained a serious injury.
The 24-year-old firefighter was hit by a falling tree while fighting the blaze northeast of Jasper.
The firefighter was a resident of Calgary and based out of the Rocky Mountain House fire base.
“RCMP wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of the deceased,” said public information officer Cpl. Troy Savinkoff.
Parks Canada says the firefighter’s crew provided immediate first aid and the incident’s medical response plan was activated.
The 24-year-old was rushed by stretcher to a helipad and flown out by STARS air ambulance but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
“This incident highlights the dangerous nature of wildland firefighting and the hazards that crew members encounter every day. Every single person responding to the Jasper Wildfire Complex is in mourning today for our friend and colleague. The wildland fire community is small and every loss deeply impacts us all,” said Parks Canada.
Alberta Wildfire posted to social media that the 24-year-old firefighter is being remembered Sunday.
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“Today we are mourning the loss of one of our own. An Alberta Wildfire crew member was fatally injured yesterday while responding to the wildfire in Jasper. This morning we stood heartbroken with our partners as a procession passed by,” read the post.
Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland says the municipality is profoundly saddened by the tragic loss.
“This dedicated person travelled to Jasper to help us, to help protect our town and our home. Our hearts ache for their family, their loved ones and their comrades. Jasperites stand with you, sharing in your grief and honouring the ultimate sacrifice of a courageous firefighter,” said Ireland.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also offered her condolences on social media Sunday morning.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a wildland firefighter during yesterday’s response operations in the Jasper area,” said Premier Smith.
“Our hearts go out to their family and friends in this incredibly difficult time. We are forever grateful for the courageous wildland firefighters who risk their lives every day to protect others.”
Alberta’s Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen shared his condolences for the young firefighter to X, formerly Twitter, Saturday evening.
“I am devastated to learn today of the tragic loss of one of our valued Alberta Wildland firefighters, serving the province in the Jasper area. My heart goes out to the family and friends of this front-line hero who had an unwavering commitment to safeguarding our communities,” Loewen said.
“Our deepest condolences also go to his fire-line crew, the 700-person strong team working in Jasper, and the larger Alberta Wildfire community. I know all of you have been deeply impacted by this loss. On behalf of all Albertans, we grieve this terrible news with you.”
RCMP say Occupational Health and Safety has been notified of the death and will be investigating.
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