Willows, CA…USDA Forest Service officials on the Mendocino National Forest are deeply saddened to confirm the death of a firefighter on the August Complex. Two additional firefighters were involved in the accident. The firefighters were working on the Tatham Fire within the August Complex on Monday, Aug. 31, 2020 when the vehicle accident occurred. A second injured firefighter is receiving medical attention for burns to their hand and arm, while the third firefighter involved received no injuries.

“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.”

California Highway Patrol is currently leading the investigation. More details will be made available as they are confirmed. In the meantime, please join us in keeping our fallen firefighter, our injured firefighter, and their loved ones in our thoughts during this difficult time.

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.