Alberta Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen became emotional when speaking about the Alberta Wildland Fire employee who died while battling a wildfire near Jasper. As Loewen fought back tears Sunday, he said the loss of a young firefighter is hard to bear as a father and grandfather. “I know that I speak unanimously among my caucus colleagues in sending heartfelt sympathies to this courageous young man’s family,” said Loewen at a Sunday press conference. “I want to recognize his unwavering commitment to protecting our communities.” He said in an quivering voice all Albertans stand with Alberta Wildfire staff in mourning this loss. While people might want to learn more information, the Alberta government has been working with the family on releasing more details so they can have some privacy during this difficult time and to respect the ongoing Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) investigation. Due to this situation, the bus tours to the Jasper wildfire site have been postponed until Monday pending fire conditions. He added the wildfire situation became too unpredictable to head up on Sunday.He said every Albertan has a role to play in preventing wildfires. Preventing wildfires caused by people allows the Alberta government to focus on those it cannot control. He called for people to reflect on how their daily activities could cause a sparked ember or a flyaway piece and take the time to ensure their fires are put out. Additionally, he said they should do whatever they can to protect themselves, their communities, and Alberta’s forests. In closing, Loewen expressed gratitude to Alberta Wildland Fire employees. He said the Alberta government is with them as they support each other during this sad time.Alberta RCMP said a 24-year-old male firefighter has been pronounced dead while battling a wildfire near Jasper. On Saturday at 2:15 p.m., the RCMP said it was notified of a serious injury sustained to an Alberta Wildland Fire employee from a falling tree while fighting an active wildfire near Jasper..The RCMP said the deceased was a Calgary resident and based out of the Rocky Mountain House Fire Base. It confirmed OHS has been notified of the death and will be investigating. The RCMP expressed its condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of the deceased. Jasper caught on fire on July 24, with a popular lodge and many other buildings in the town up in flames.READ MORE: UPDATED: Town of Jasper ablaze, fire reaches historic Park Lodge, military on the wayParks Canada Incident Commander Katie Ellsworth and Municipality of Jasper Incident Commander Christine Nadon confirmed parts of the southern wildfire in Jasper National Park had found their way into the town’s limits. “At just before 6 p.m. this evening, portions of the South Fire in Jasper National Park reached the outskirts of the Jasper townsite after being driven by strong winds gusts from the south and southeast,” said Ellsworth and Nadon.
