Yosemite, CA…This morning, park officials were informed that a firefighter from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks was killed in the line of duty on the Ferguson Fire in Mariposa County. The firefighter’s identity is being withheld until appropriate family notifications have been made. The fatal incident occurred earlier this morning. At the time, the firefighter and his crew were engaged in a tactical firing operation on the east side of the Ferguson Fire.

They were operating in an area with a large amount of tree mortality. The firefighter was struck by a tree. He was treated on scene, but passed away before he could be transported to a hospital.

“The team at Sequoia and Kings National Park is devastated by this terrible news,” says parks superintendent Woody Smeck. “Our deepest condolences go out to the firefighter’s family and loved ones. We grieve this loss
with you.”

Further public information will be made available once the firefighter’s family has been notified. No photos or video related to this incident are currently available.