ARMSTRONG CREEK, W.Va. — A state forester with the West Virginia Division of Forestry tragically died while fighting a forest fire in Fayette County.
Cody J. Mullens, 28, of Mt. Hope in Fayette County, was fatally injured by a falling tree on Armstrong Creek near Montgomery Thursday evening.
Jeremy Jones works with the West Virginia Division of Forestry and was at the scene of the fire.
“I would like to thank all the first responders that responded to this incident,” Jones said while in Armstrong Creek.
Governor Jim Justice and the First Lady issued a statement following Mullens’ death.
“Cathy and I are heartbroken by the tragic news of losing one of our own,” Gov. Justice said. “Our state foresters are some of the most dedicated workers in our state, putting their lives on the line to protect our communities from wildfires, and we owe them all, especially Cody, an enormous debt of gratitude.”
Justice added, “Losing a brave forester is a tragedy beyond belief. Cathy and I will keep this man and his loved ones in our prayers and ask all West Virginians to join with us.”
Reports are at least 3,000 acres had burned.