A firefighter died while battling a forest fire in the Northwest Territories, authorities say
Authorities confirmed the death three days after another 19-year-old firefighter died while responding to a forest fire in British Columbia.
"We regret to share the tragic news that a firefighter from Fort Liard has passed away due to an injury sustained while battling a forest fire in the Fort Liard district on Saturday afternoon," wrote the Northwest Territories in the bulletin on Sunday.
The government did not release the firefighter's name but wrote, "Our thoughts are with their family, friends, colleagues, and community."
"We share in their profound grief over this loss. We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy, including the wildfire personnel who are committed to protecting their communities and NWT residents."
Currently, there are 89 active fires in the Northwest Territories, with a new fire starting in the past 24 hours. Over 809,000 hectares or over 8,000 square kilometers are affected by the fires in that territory.
As of Sunday afternoon, the fire danger level was considered "extreme" for the fires in the Fort Liard area, located about 37 kilometers north of B.C.
Authorities said the firefighter's family has been notified of the death, as well as the RCMP and the coroner's office, and that they will provide more information when available.