UPDATED AT 416 P.M. Idaho firefighter dies after being hit by falling tree near Kooskia

Isabella Oscarson, a firefighter from Minnesota, died after being struck by a falling tree during a prescribed fire near Kooskia, Idaho. The incident happened while she assisted on a U. S. Forest Service operation related to the Tinker Bugs timber sale. After the accident, she was evacuated to Grangeville, where she later died.

The Idaho Department of Lands extended its condolences, highlighting the tragedy's profound impact on local firefighters and the broader community. Governor Brad Little ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Oscarson, stating that Idahoans are mourning the loss of a promising young woman dedicated to serving the state. The timber sale and prescribed fire took place south of U. S. Highway 12 above the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River.

This incident underscores the inherent dangers faced by wildland firefighters in their line of duty. Services for Oscarson are currently pending.