Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Alberta Premier Jason Kenney have both expressed their condolences and sorrow after a firefighter tragically lost his life while battling a wildfire in Jasper National Park.
The firefighter, identified as Marc-André Coulombe, was a member of the Parks Canada fire crew and had been working to contain the Verdant Creek wildfire when he suffered a fatal injury on Friday.
In a statement released on Saturday, Prime Minister Trudeau said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Marc-André Coulombe, a dedicated firefighter who lost his life while bravely protecting our communities and natural spaces. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”
Premier Kenney also expressed his condolences, saying, “I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of Marc-André Coulombe. He was a hero who put his life on the line to protect our province and its people. My deepest sympathies go out to his loved ones and fellow firefighters.”
The Verdant Creek wildfire, which was first reported on July 15, has burned over 2,800 hectares of land in the national park. Parks Canada has closed several trails and campgrounds in the area as a precaution.
The cause of Coulombe’s death is currently under investigation, and the RCMP and Occupational Health and Safety are both involved in the investigation.
In a statement, Parks Canada said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our team members. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Marc-André Coulombe.”
Coulombe’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the risks that firefighters face every day while working to protect our communities and natural spaces. Our hearts go out to his loved ones and all those who have been affected by this devastating loss.
