Condolences pour in from across the nation after deadly firefighting helicopter crash
Local, state, and national leaders have sent in their condolences following a helicopter crash in Cabazon that claimed the lives of three first responders who were battling a brush fire.
Three first responders were killed when two helicopters crashed while combating a fire in Cabazon Sunday evening. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the circumstances of the crash.
On Monday, the victims have been identified as Cal Fire Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and contracted pilot Tony Sousa.
"I worked with Chief Bischof off many times. He was very approachable, always wanted to mentor people just overall going up to him with a smile on his face. And the same thing with Captain Rodriguez. He was an up-and-comer with an air program very devoted to the program," said CAL FIRE Captain Richard Cordova.
Please keep these men, their families and our fire family in your hearts and prayers. https://t.co/InVYXB7tyj
— CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department (@CALFIRERRU) August 7, 2023
The tragic loss of the three brave first responders was felt across the country.
California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement Monday morning.
On behalf of all Californians, our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the loved ones, friends, and colleagues mourning the loss of these @CAL_FIRE heroes.
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) August 7, 2023
We owe them our deepest respect and gratitude and will always honor their bravery and sacrifices. pic.twitter.com/s86eQYdvSe
First Lady Jill Biden also took to Twitter to send her condolences, responding to a similar message from Edward A. Kelly, the General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters.
My heart is with the families and loved ones of the firefighters and pilot who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter accident while battling a wildfire in Southern California. https://t.co/NKVno76L2W
— Jill Biden (@FLOTUS) August 7, 2023
Local Congressmembers Ken Calvert and Raul Ruiz
Our firefighters selflessly put themselves in danger to keep us safe. I’m heartbroken by the loss of our @CALFIRERRU heroes who were killed in a tragic helicopter crash while fighting a wildfire here in Riverside County. My prayers are with their colleagues and families.
— Ken Calvert (@KenCalvert) August 7, 2023
My heart and prayers go out to the family, friends of @CAL_FIRE Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Captain Tim Rodriguez, and pilot Tony Sousa who lost their lives while battling a fire in the Cabazon area last night. Their bravery, and ultimate sacrifices will always be remembered.
— Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (@RepRaulRuizMD) August 7, 2023
County Supervisor Manuel Perez
Local first responders as well as city leaders also sent out their messages of support for the men's families and colleagues.
The City of Palm Desert wishes to express our sincere condolences to everyone at @CALFIRERRU, and especially to the family and friends of those who were lost in this tragic incident. https://t.co/6DBpuVc3MB
— City of Palm Desert (@PalmDesertGov) August 7, 2023
RSO sends our thoughts and prayers to our brothers and sisters @CALFIRERRU 🙏 #differentpatchsamefamily pic.twitter.com/lGQ3EIxHZ4
— Riverside County Sheriff (@RSO) August 7, 2023
