Forest Service 'Devastated' over Firefighters' Deaths
U.S. Forest Service officials said three firefighters have been killed and four others injured while battling a raging wildfire in Washington state.
"We are devastated by the tragic loss of three of our Forest Service firefighters," Mike Williams, Forest Supervisor on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, said.
"We are working with county and state partners to notify the families of those lost. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and fellow crew members of these brave firefighters," Williams said.
"The firefighters were engaged in initial attack operations and were involved in a vehicle accident when it is believed that the fire overtook the vehicle," the U.S. Forest Service said in a release late Wednesday night.
The Secretary for the United States Department of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, sent CBN News the following statement:
"On Wednesday night, we received the news that three U.S. Forest Service firefighters lost their lives battling a wildfire near the town of Twisp, Washington. We mourn the loss of the brave firefighters whose commitment to duty was so deep that they gave their own lives to protect others. We also extend our profound sympathies to the families and loved ones of the fallen, whose sacrifices are equally worthy of honor, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who are recovering from injuries sustained in the line of duty. As we press on through an extraordinarily challenging wildfire season, we are reminded yet again of the perils our firefighters face as they protect communities from wildfire. Our firefighting personnel have been particularly hard hit this year and we've lost several lives. We continue to mourn for them and offer support to their families. On behalf of the American people, thank you to those who keep us safe."
The fire has forced the evacuation of 1,300 people in Okanogan County. One official called the fires a "hellstorm."
Overall, nearly 29,000 firefighters are battling some 100 large blazes across the west.
