Forest Service Fire Fighter Dies During Conditioning Hike in Del Norte County
Six Rivers National Forest release:
Acting Six Rivers National Forest Supervisor Michael Green
announced today the loss of firefighter William “Bill” Jaros.
Bill had been a Forest Service firefighter for more than 12 years, most recently as the fire engine
operator on Engine 312 on the forest’s Gasquet Ranger District/Smith River National Recreation Area.
“It saddens me to announce the untimely and heartbreaking death of one of our own,” said Green.
“Please keep Bill’s family and all of our Forest Service employees in your thoughts and prayers during
this difficult time.”
On Saturday, July 8, Bill was on a conditioning hike with several crew members when he became ill and
collapsed. Immediate life-saving efforts were initiated by his fellow crew members; however, they were
unable to resuscitate him.
Conditioning hikes, such as the one Engine 312 crew members were participating in on Saturday, are
part of the continuing preparedness routine for firefighters.
Bill was a valued Forest Service employee, kind coworker, and beloved friend. The land, the
community, and the Forest Service are better for having been touched by him. He will be missed and
remembered by all that knew him.
In the coming days, the Forest Service will conduct a facilitated learning analysis to gather all
information we can about this tragic loss.
The cause of death is under investigation through the Del Norte County Coroner’s office.