Firefighter killed in vehicle accident in Arizona

UPDATE at 12:18 a.m. MDT, June 9, 2012.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has identified the firefighter that was killed in Friday’s vehicle accident as Engine Boss Anthony Polk, 31, of Yuma, Arizona.

We extend out sincere condolences to Mr. Polk’s family, friends, coworkers, and the BIA.

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UPDATE at 9:29 a.m. MT, June 9, 2012

The incident management team has released some additional information about the fatal accident on Friday in which one firefighter was killed. The deceased was an employee of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and was one of three firefighters on a Type 6 engine when it rolled over. The firefighter was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver and another passenger were transported to the Sells hospital and later released. The accident happened on Federal Route 19, near milepost 22.

They expect to release the firefighter’s name later Saturday morning.

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A firefighter working on a fire in Arizona was killed Friday morning in a vehicle accident. An engine crew that was driving to their assignment on the Montezuma fire was involved in a rollover. The accident occurred at 8:30 a.m. a spokesperson for the fire told Wildfire Today. One firefighter was killed and two suffered minor injuries. No other details are available at this time.

The Montezuma fire has burned about 1,700 acres in the Baboquivari Mountain Range on Tribal land 20 miles southeast of Sells, Arizona and is being managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. It is in steep terrain with heavy brush, making it difficult for crews to directly suppress the fire. According to a report from the scene, helicopters and fixed wing aircraft have been the only means of suppression.

Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and coworkers of the firefighters involved.

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.

2 thoughts on “Firefighter killed in vehicle accident in Arizona”

  1. I remeber Anthony way back when, he is and will always be a great person. He made me laugh. I met him through my cousin, while I was there for the summer in 1995. I will miss you.

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  2. Anthony was a wonderful man with a heart of gold this is so tragic you will be missed.

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