Authorities have identified the firefighter who tragically lost his life while working on the Dragon Bravo Fire in northern Arizona as 70-year-old J. Hank Hester of Priest River, Idaho.
Hester was engaged in tree removal duties within the fire zone when he experienced a sudden cardiac emergency. Despite the immediate response from paramedics on scene, efforts to save him were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the site, according to the Southwest Area Incident Management Team 3.
News of Hester’s passing has brought profound grief to the firefighting community. Known for his dedication, professionalism, and selfless service, Hester was deeply respected among his peers. In a statement, the incident management team described him as “a man devoted not only to his profession but also to the people and communities endangered by wildfires.”
Incident Commander Matt Rau expressed condolences to Hester’s family and colleagues, calling him a true member of the wildfire family: “Hank is a member of our wildfire family and will be deeply missed.”
The National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. While the cause is believed to be cardiac-related, officials are working to ensure a thorough review.
The Dragon Bravo Fire, like many others across the region, has demanded extensive manpower and placed immense physical strain on firefighters. Hester’s passing serves as a solemn reminder of the risks wildland firefighters face daily—beyond flames and smoke, the hidden dangers of exhaustion and physical toll are ever-present.
Hank Hester will be remembered not only as a firefighter, but as a valued colleague, a trusted professional, and a man whose commitment to protecting others embodied courage and sacrifice. His loss is felt deeply by his family, friends, and the entire firefighting community, who now honor his legacy of service and resilience.
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