ON Friday, July 28 just before 11 a.m., Fort St. John RCMP were notified of a workplace fatality involving a wildland firefighter contracted to the BC Wildfire Service.

The RCMP learned that the 25-year-old wildland firefighter was working in a remote area approximately 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John when the UTV he was riding on, rolled over a steep drop on a gravel road.

He was transported by helicopter to the Fort St. John Airport, but succumbed to his injuries while en route. The wildland firefighter was from Ontario and contracted by a private BC company.

The events surrounding his death are being actively investigated by the RCMP, BC Coroners Service, WorkSafeBC and the BC Wildfire Service.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this young man, as well as to his fellow firefighters,” said the BC RCMP on Saturday.

Premier David Eby said in a statement: “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.

“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.

“We will have more to say as details become available.”

Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, said in a statement: “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.

“I am heartbroken that another firefighter was lost protecting our communities and our province during this devastating wildfire season. My deepest sympathies are with their family and friends, as well as their colleagues and the broader wildfire community – many of whom I know are still coping with the tragic loss of a colleague earlier this month.

“We will continue to support our teams through this difficult time. I extend my gratitude to every wildfire crew member in B.C. for continuing to show up and protect us during these times of tremendous loss.”