7/30/2014 NEWS RELEASE: Forest Regrets Loss of Contract Firefighter

Contact:        Erica Hupp          541-883-6715                               July 30, 2014

FOREST REGREST LOSSS OF CONTRACT FIREFIGHTER

Klamath Falls, Oregon – On July 29, a firefighter from a contract fire crew assigned to the Launch Fire suffered a fatal injury not related to fire suppression activities.

An investigation into the death is being led by the Klamath County Sheriff's Office, and the victim's family has been notified.

Specific details surrounding the investigation, including the victim's name and the nature of the circumstances leading up to his death, will be released through the Klamath County Sheriff's Office. Any additional details will be released as soon as they become available.

The Forest and the entire wildland fire community are saddened by the tragic loss of one of our firefighters," said Connie Cummins, Forest Supervisor for the Fremont-Winema National Forest. "Our hearts go out to their family, friends and co-workers."

"We are saddened by this news," added Acting Regional Forester Becki Lockett Heath.  "The death of anyone involved with protecting life and property from wildfire affects us all. We send our thoughts and prayers from the Forest Service to all who knew and cared for him."

On July 28, the Launch Fire started in the Sky Lakes Wilderness on the Fremont-Winema National Forest. It is estimated to be around 100 acres. An investigation of the origin of the fire determined that it was human caused.  Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations has gathered evidence at the fire origin, is interviewing witnesses, and is following up on several leads.

-end-