NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – US Forest Service officials on Tuesday afternoon released new information about the death of a firefighter that occurred on the August Complex on the Mendocino National Forest.
Forest officials said three firefighters were involved in a vehicle crash on the Tatham fire within the complex on Monday.
One firefighter died, a second was receiving attention for burns to their hand and arm, while the third firefighter involved received no injuries, forest officials reported.
"This was a tragic incident and our hearts go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the fallen firefighter," said Acting Forest Supervisor Sandra Moore. "Right now we are committed to providing support to those involved, while safely continuing firefighting operations.”
Forest Service officials, Federal Southern Area Blue Team Incident Management and Cal Fire Incident Management Team 4 are working to support the families, who have been notified, officials said.
The California Highway Patrol is currently leading the investigation. Forest Service officials said more details will be made available as they are confirmed.
The August Complex, burning since Aug. 17 and caused by thunderstorms, has burned 242,941 acres and is 20-percent contained, officials said Tuesday afternoon.
The Tatham fire, the portion of the complex where the firefighter’s death occurred, is 15,594 acres and burning in southwest Tehama County.
Approximately 690 personnel are assigned to the complex, the Forest Service said.
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