This release was issued under a previous government.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of a pilot whose plane crashed while fighting a wildland fire near Cold Lake.
“On behalf of the Government of Alberta and all Albertans, I offer my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of the pilot who lost his life protecting our province from a threatening wildfire.
“First responders like this pilot, and our many other dedicated wildland fire fighters, put their lives on the line every day to ensure that our homes and families are safe. We owe them our most sincere gratitude. Even as they mourn the loss of one of their own, I know they will continue fighting the many fires burning within our borders.
“In light of this tragedy, I remind all Albertans to respect the fire restrictions that are now in place to reduce the risk to our first responders and our communities.”