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Idaho FF/equipment operator dies while working on Ariz. wildfire

Firefighter/Equipment Operator J. Hank Hester collapsed during suppression repair and hazardous tree removal at the Dragon Bravo Fire

GRAND CANYON JUNCTION, Ariz. — Firefighter/Equipment Operator J. Hank Hester, 70, of Priest River, Idaho, died in the line of duty after collapsing while performing suppression repair on the Dragon Bravo Fire near the Grand Canyon’s North Rim.

The United States Fire Administration said paramedics initiated CPR at the scene on Sept. 8, but Hester could not be resuscitated. The suspected cause of death is a cardiovascular emergency.

Officials said Hester was actively supporting hazard tree removal operations when the emergency occurred. His wife, Janet Hester, described him as a firefighter, logger and entrepreneur, but above all a family man, KREM reported.

“A couple of weeks ago, I told him I strive to be like him in my life,” she said. “I said my goal in life is to be as good of a person as you are.”

GoFundMe: Honoring Hank Hester: Fallen Wildland Firefighter

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.