Man killed in Northwest Territories over the weekend
A firefighter from Fort Liard, a hamlet in the southwest corner of the Northwest Territories, has lost his life while battling a devastating wildfire. It’s the second firefighter to lose their life this season.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the Fort Liard district, where multiple wildfires have been raging. The Government of the Northwest Territories released a statement confirming the firefighter's passing.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and community. We share your deep sorrow at this loss,” says wildfire information officer Jessica Davey-Quantick. “We send our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy, including wildfire personnel who are committed to protecting their communities and the residents of the NWT."
The identity of the fallen firefighter was not been disclosed in the news release, but authorities have notified his family, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and the Coroner Service. The news has sent shockwaves through the region, as the community mourns the loss of a dedicated individual who put his life on the line to safeguard others.
N.W.T. Premier Caroline Cochrane expressed her deep sadness and gratitude for the firefighter's service. In a tweet on Sunday, she stated, "This is a tragic loss for the entire territory, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to their family, friends, and colleagues. The bravery and selflessness of our firefighters is an incredible gift to us all."
Just a few days earlier, on July 13, 19-year-old Devyn Gale, a wildland firefighter, was tragically killed in a remote area of Revelstoke, British Columbia. Gale was working with a team to clear brush near a small wildfire when she became separated and was struck by a fallen tree.
The loss of these brave individuals highlights the immense risks faced by firefighters battling the relentless flames across the country. Canada's wildfire season has been unprecedented, with over 100,000 square kilometers of land scorched and hundreds of fires continuing to rage uncontrollably. The Northwest Territories alone is grappling with more than 80 active wildfires, while British Columbia has surpassed 375.
The severity of the situation has prompted a call for additional support. On Friday, Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair approved a request for federal assistance in British Columbia, including aid from the Canadian Armed Forces. B.C. Minister of Emergency Management Bowinn Ma has also requested the deployment of 1,000 international firefighters to join the firefighting efforts in the province.
Firefighters from Mexico, the United States, South Korea, France, South Africa, and the Dominican Republic have already been working tirelessly alongside Canadian crews. Their combined efforts are essential in combating the escalating wildfires and protecting lives and properties threatened by the unforgiving flames.
