President Joe Biden recently issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of the three Cabazon firefighters who lost their lives in a helicopter crash while responding to the Broadway Fire on Aug. 6.
“Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families of the helicopter pilot, and the brave California firefighters, who tragically lost their lives Sunday,” Biden said. “Every day, firefighters run toward danger, while everyone else runs the other way, because being a firefighter is not what they do – it’s who they are.”
He said the tragedy is an example of the firefighters’ bravery.
“As wildfires have intensified in recent years, more and more firefighters have put themselves in harm’s way to defend our families and communities from out-of-control fires,” Biden said.
The midair collision involved a Sikorsky S-64E and a Bell 407, according to a report by AP News. The Sikorsky, which was the larger of the two helicopters, managed to land safely, but three individuals on board the Bell 407 perished. During a news conference, Cal Fire Southern Region Chief David Fulcher stated that the Bell 407 was being used for observation and coordination purposes, while the Sikorsky was designated for water or retardant drops on the fire. The victims of the crash were identified as Cal Fire Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, aged 46, Cal Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, aged 44 and contract pilot Tony Sousa, aged 55.
“Our hearts are broken at the loss of our colleagues, mentors and friends,” said CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Chief Bill Weiser. “Josh and Tim were exceptional firefighters and people. We grieve with their families and loved ones, and our prayers are with them.”
