SHOW LOW, Arizona — The Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District has identified two firefighter/paramedics who were killed in a head-on collision in their ambulance on Sept. 15.
The firefighters were identified as Brenna Kulikowski, 31, a firefighter/paramedic with three years of service, and Damon Thompson, 21, who was 15 days from completing his first year with the department.
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The Arizona Department of Public Safety’s preliminary investigation found that a westbound passenger vehicle crossed the centerline and hit a Timber Mesa Fire & Medical District ambulance head-on, AZ Family reported.
“Head-on collision, extreme damage. And I’ve been on a lot of accidents over my career. And it was, it was horrific,” Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District Chief Randy Chevalier said.
Chevalier said the firefighters were returning to Show Low after completing an interfacility transfer to a Valley facility when they were struck.
“Brenna was certainly top-notch and such a compassionate person and a fantastic paramedic,” Chevalier said. “Damon’s parents said Damon always wanted to be a firefighter, and he was a dang good firefighter.”
Gov. Katie Hobbs posted a statement on social media:
“I’m heartbroken to learn two brave firefighters lost their lives in a tragic crash near Show Low. These heroes dedicated themselves to protecting our communities, and my thoughts are with their families, loved ones, and fellow first responders during this difficult time.”
