SALEM, Ore. — An Oregon firefighter was seriously injured when a tree originally intended for the state Capitol rotunda fell on her during a cutting operation, according to the Department of Forestry.
The firefighter, Dana Turner, is a Kentucky native who moved to Oregon to pursue her firefighting career. Turner rose through the ranks to become a wildland supervisor with the Oregon Department of Forestry, KPTV reported.
When she was selected to lead the crew tasked with cutting this year’s Capitol Christmas tree, she was thrilled, calling it an honor and a privilege to be part of the effort.
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During the operation on Nov. 17, the 70-foot fir tree fell on Turner, causing serious injuries, including a crushed femur and severe lower back trauma. She was airlifted by LifeFlight to a trauma center, where surgeons stabilized her leg with rods, plates and screws from hip to knee.
The Department of Forestry said the incident is under investigation and confirmed the tree was being cut for the Oregon Capitol. Officials added they are grateful Turner is recovering and will continue to support her. A state legislature spokesperson told KPTV that a different tree was chosen for the Capitol following the accident.
Support Capt. Dana Turner’s road to recovery
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to support Dana Turner on her road to recovery. Donations will help cover medical expenses and ongoing needs as she continues to heal.
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