Sacramento July 14, 2018 – It is with deep sadness that CAL FIRE can confirm that this morning while battling the Ferguson Fire on the Sierra National Forest CAL FIRE Heavy Fire Equipment Operator Braden Varney from the CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit was tragically killed. He leaves behind a wife and two small children. More information will be made available as we confirm details. In the meantime, please join us in keeping Braden and his loved ones in your prayers and all the responders on the front lines in your thoughts as they continue to work under extremely challenging conditions.
The Ferguson Fire started last night at 10:35 PM near El Portal in Mariposa County. The fire was under Unified Command with CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit and the US Forest Service – Sierra National Forest. As of 8:00 AM this morning the fire is no longer in Unified Command and has been turned over the our partners at the US Forest Service. The Ferguson Fire is currently 130 acres and 5% contained.