BERLIN, Conn. — A tragic incident occurred in Connecticut on Tuesday when a firefighter lost his life, and two others sustained injuries while they were combating a substantial 90-acre brush fire. According to officials, the incident took place on Lamentation Mountain, located about 15 miles south of Hartford, where crews from multiple towns were actively trying to extinguish the flames.

Authorities report that the fallen firefighter was with the Wethersfield department. He was riding in a utility task vehicle along a trail when the vehicle overturned close to the boundary with Meriden. Investigators are currently looking into the circumstances that led to the tragic rollover.

In honor of the fallen firefighter, a procession of first responders was organized Tuesday evening to transport him from the mountain to the chief medical examiner’s office. Meanwhile, the two other firefighters involved in the accident received treatments for minor injuries and were later released from the hospital, as noted by Berlin Fire Chief John Massirio.

Chief Massirio expressed the profound sense of loss felt within the firefighting community, stating that the connections among the firefighters are deeply rooted, creating a close-knit family. He emphasized, “It’s definitely felt throughout the surrounding towns… We’re a family, and it affects everybody here.” Fire departments from around the state have been expressing their condolences on social media platforms, showcasing the unity of the profession during this difficult time.

The brush fire itself began on Monday, and firefighting crews have been tirelessly working day and night to contain and extinguish it. Fortunately, no evacuations have been necessitated as of now, although officials are still probing the cause of this significant blaze.