San Carlos Apache fire crew member dies while supporting fight against Frijoles Fire

A 62-year-old San Carlos Camp Crew member from Arizona died while supporting the federal response to the Frijoles Fire in New Mexico, authorities said.

Randy Lupe died after a medical emergency while serving as a temporary emergency support crew member, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

On Tuesday, the Bureau of Indian Affairs released the following statement:

Our hearts go out to the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Indian Country and especially the wildland fire community as we mourn the loss of Randy Lupe, a dedicated crewmember who served on the Frijoles Fire. His commitment and spirit will be remembered by the wildland firefighting family and beyond.

Details about the Frijoles Fire in New Mexico that Randy Lupe helped battle

The lightning-caused Frijoles Fire began Aug. 4. As of Tuesday, it had burned 15,226 acres and was 52% contained, according to InciWeb.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy offered condolences to Lupe’s family, friends and fellow crew members.

“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of a wildland fire crewmember who died while supporting firefighting efforts,” Fennessy said. “Every member of our wildland fire workforce plays a vital role in our emergency response efforts, and this loss is felt across the entire wildland fire community.”

Unlike firefighters who work directly on the fireline, support crew members like Lupe typically work behind the scenes at fire camps or coordination centers. Their responsibilities can include tracking equipment, coordinating logistics and assisting with other essential parts of the emergency response.

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