B.C. firefighter killed responding to wildfire near Revelstoke, premier extends condolences

(Adobe Stock)

A firefighter has been killed in British Columbia responding to a wildfire near Revelstoke.

Premier David Eby confirmed the death in a statement, saying the province is “deeply saddened to hear about the tragic incident.”

“On behalf of all British Columbians, we extend our condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of this crew member,” said Eby. “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.

The death comes as the province puts out a call for national and international help to fight the 350 or so fires burning across B.C.

Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Minister Bowinn Ma says the province has requested 1,000 additional foreign firefighters to join 160 from Mexico and the United States already in B.C., as well as more federal resources.

with files from the Canadian Press