Authorities confirmed that a firefighter died Sunday afternoon after suffering a cardiac emergency while working to suppress the Bivens Creek wildfire in southwest Montana. Despite immediate medical aid from a paramedic on the scene, resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.
Over 700 Firefighters Deployed
The man, who has not yet been publicly identified, was among more than 700 firefighters battling the lightning-caused blaze in the Tobacco Root Mountains, roughly 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of Virginia City.
Governor Pays Tribute
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte expressed condolences in a public statement, calling the fallen firefighter a “hero” and honoring his service in protecting communities from the growing wildfire.
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Details of the Incident Under Review
Further information about the firefighter’s identity and circumstances surrounding the medical emergency has not yet been released. Officials are continuing to investigate the incident.
Bivens Creek Fire Expands in Remote Terrain
The Bivens Creek Fire, first sparked on August 13 by lightning, has already burned about 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers). Crews are contending with dense timber, steep terrain, and numerous dead trees, making containment efforts especially challenging.
