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Firefighter dies while fighting wildfire
The Forest Service is investigating the death of a contract firefighter who was injured while battling the 12,873-acre Austin Fire, officials said.
On Wednesday, a wildland firefighter died after sustaining injuries while battling the Austin Fire in Oregon's Mount Hood National Forest. First responders provided immediate medical aid before the firefighter died at an area hospital.
Located southeast of Estacada, the human-caused Austin Fire has burned 12,873 acres since early August. As of Friday, crews have reached 36% containment while continuing to mop up hot spots along the fire's edges.
Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, expressed his condolences, stating, "My deepest condolences to the loved ones and co-workers of this firefighter who lost their life battling this blaze." Officials have not released the firefighter's name or additional details.
An official investigation into the incident is underway as The Forest Service works with the firefighter's family and the private contractor involved at the time of the injury.
Some evacuation orders and closures remain in place across the Mount Hood National Forest as crews continue suppression efforts. The National Interagency Fire Center initially reported the death of the contract firefighter assigned to the fire.