A 24-year-old firefighter from Alberta was killed on Saturday while fighting the wildfire in Jasper National Park.
RCMP officers were notified that an Alberta Wildland firefighter sustained a serious injury after being struck by a fallen tree while attempting to stave off the out-of-control blaze still raging northeast of Jasper on Saturday afternoon.
“RCMP wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of the deceased,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff, a public information officer.
A resident of Calgary, the firefighter was based out of the Rocky Mountain House firebase.
The Calgary Police Commission expressed its condolences to his family in a post to X on Sunday.
According to Parks Canada, the man received immediate first aid from his crew before being rushed to a helipad on a stretcher and flown out by Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service air ambulance.
However, shortly after its departure, he was pronounced dead.
“Our hearts go out to the loved ones and colleagues of the firefighter who lost his life while working on the incident at Jasper NP. We stand together, offering unwavering support and gratitude to all the courageous firefighters on the frontlines,” wrote Parks Canada in a post to X.
“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.
RCMP confirmed that an investigation will be launched into the death by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.
Alberta Wildfire members and other partner departments lined the road to honour the lost firefighter as a procession passed by on Sunday.
“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 said the municipality stood with the firefighter, who came to aid them in their time of need and made the “ultimate sacrifice.”
“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 said she was “deeply saddened” by the death which she called a”tragic loss.”
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a wildland firefighter during yesterday’s response operations in the Jasper area,” wrote 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.”
