Firefighter dies while battling Dragon Bravo Fire

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A firefighter working on the Dragon Bravo Fire in the Grand Canyon died Monday after suffering a cardiac emergency, according to the incident management team.

What we know:

The firefighter, Hank Hester, 70, from Priest River, Idaho, was working on "suppression repair" near the North Rim entrance station. Specifically, he was working on tree removal.

"The firefighter was actively involved in suppression repair when he suffered a cardiac emergency near the North Rim Entrance Station. Rapid medical assistance was rendered from a line paramedic; however, resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful," the incident management team said.

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What they're saying:

"Southwest Area Incident Management Team 3 and incident personnel deeply appreciate his dedication to his profession and to the communities threatened by wildland fire. The wildland firefighting community feels this loss profoundly and will hold Hank in their hearts and memories," a Facebook post read.

Incident Commander Matt Rau says Hester will be deeply missed

"Our deepest condolences go out to the Hester family and friends during this very tragic time.  Hank is a member of our wildfire family and will be deeply missed," Rau said. 

What's next:

Support is available to those affected by this loss, which remains under investigation.

The management team said, "Support is being provided to fellow professional wildland firefighters and friends on the Dragon Bravo Fire. An investigation is being conducted by the National Park Service in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner. More information will be provided as it becomes available."

The backstory:

The fire, which was sparked by lightning on July 4, destroyed the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and dozens of other buildings.

It is currently 80% contained and has burned more than 145,500 acres.

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WildfiresGrand CanyonNewsCoconino County