BLM Firefighters Jacob M. O'Malley and Will P. Hawkins Killed in Fire Engine Rollover Yesterday
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Two Bureau of Land Management (BLM) firefighters died and one was injured in a single-vehicle crash yesterday on Nevada State Route 140. The BLM firefighters were returning from duty in the Denio area on their way back to Winnemucca when the accident occurred at about 5:20 p.m. yesterday.Jacob M. O'Malley, 27, and Will P. Hawkins, 22, were killed in the rollover accident. The injured BLM employee, Zachery McElroy, was flown to Renown Medical Center in Reno, where he is in stable condition. The BLM fire crew was returning from a routine patrol investigating lightning strikes in the area when the accident occurred.A procession of Nevada Highway Patrol, BLM fire, and local fire and law enforcement vehicles escorted the two firefighters from Winnemucca to Reno today. "We appreciate all the community support for these courageous individuals," said BLM Nevada State Director John Ruhs. "Our hearts are with their families and loved ones tonight."For more information, contact Stephen Clutter, at (775) 525-4736.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.