SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – USDA Forest Service officials on the San Bernardino National Forest have confirmed one fatality among firefighters battling the El Dorado Fire. The incident occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2020.
The firefighter's name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
"Our deepest sympathies are with the family, friends and fellow firefighters during this time," said Forest Service Officials in a statement.
A Forest Service official contacted by Spectrum News 1 could not confirm the agency the firefighter belonged to at this time.
The cause of the firefighter's death is under investigation.
The El Dorado Fire was sparked by an incendiary device being used in a gender reveal. It has burned 19,098 acres and is currently 66 percent contained.
Spectrum News 1 will provide more details as they become available.