Premier’s statement on the death of a BC Wildfire Service crew member
By Lone Sheep Publishing
Premier David Eby joined the First Responder community in mourning the death of a BC Wildfire Service firefighter Thursday near Revelstoke.
Premier Eby released the following statement regarding the death of Devyn Gale of Revelstoke:
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the tragic incident involving a BC Wildfire Service firefighter. On behalf of all British Columbians, we extend our condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of this crew member.
“Day in and day out during wildfire season, our firefighting crews go to heroic lengths to keep people and communities in B.C. safe. This tragedy serves as a heartbreaking reminder that they are often putting their lives on the line to do so.
“This is a tremendous loss for everyone involved with the BC Wildfire Service at an already challenging time, and our hearts are with them all.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Twitter that news from British Columbia – that one of the firefighters bravely battling wildfires has lost her life – is heartbreaking.
“At this incredibly difficult time, I’m sending my deepest condolences to her family, her friends, and her fellow firefighters,” Trudeau said.
RCMP said in a media release that the 19-year-old female wildland firefighter was working alongside a team clearing brush within a remote area where a small fire had started.
Police said firefighting team lost contact with Gale before discovering she was caught under a fallen tree.
RCMP said that colleagues immediately began first aid.
Police said Gale was airlifted to Queen Victoria Hospital in Revelstoke, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Gale is the first firefighter in more than a decade to be killed while on duty.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family, friends, and fellow firefighters of this young firefighter who tragically lost her life serving her community,” says Cpl. James Grandy, Southeast District RCMP spokesperson.
“It’s a reminder of the inherent risks first responders face working tirelessly to protect our communities.”
The BC Government Employees Union (BCGEU) released a message regarding Gale Thursday on its website.
“It is with heavy hearts that our union mourns the loss of one of our BCGEU family who lost her life today fighting a wildfire outside of Revelstoke.
Our hearts and thoughts go out to her family and community, both at home and in the BC Wildfire Service.
B.C. wildland firefighters are renowned for their teamwork and incredible service to our communities. Each and every one is committed to ensuring that their fellow members return from work safely while protecting our resources and our communities. Unfortunately, incidents like today’s remind us all how dangerous this work can be.
As a union, we are committed to making occupational health and safety the highest priority in our worksites. Over the coming days, we will ensure that the WorkSafeBC investigation into the incident is thorough and that her colleagues have access to all necessary counselling and supports.
As fellow workers, we mourn her loss.”
Police said that the events surrounding her death are being actively investigated by the RCMP, BC Coroners Service, WorkSafeBC and the BC Wildfire Service.
BC Wildfires is reporting there are 1097 first this year, with 369 currently active and 27 new wildfires in the last 24 hours.
