Statement from the Government of Yukon on the death of a helicopter pilot fighting Alberta wildfire

Premier Ranj Pillai, Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn and the Yukon Wildland Fire Management branch have issued the following statement:

“The Government of Yukon and Wildland Fire Management send our deepest condolences to Alberta after the death of a helicopter pilot fighting wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area, Alberta.

“The past week has been devastating for wildfire responders across the country as three people have died fighting wildfires in seven days. We are holding them, their colleagues and their loved ones in our thoughts as we mourn along with our neighbours in Alberta, British Columbia and the Northwest Territories.

“Flags at the Jim Smith Building and at Yukon Wildland Fire Management are set at half-mast in their honour.

“We remain deeply grateful to all responders fighting wildfires across Canada. Thank you for protecting our communities with strength, skill and courage. Yukoners are mourning this loss alongside you.”