TUCSON, Ariz. (TLNA) – A tragic incident unfolded in the Bowers Fire near Whetstone, resulting in the death of one man and injuries to his son. The fire, deemed to be human-caused, was fully contained as of Thursday morning, as reported by the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.
Victims and Circumstances
The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office identified the victims as 81-year-old Neil Edward Hesse and his 52-year-old son. The duo was at their residence near North Sanders and North Bowers roads when the fire ignited. Initial reports suggest that the fire originated while the pair was operating a grinder, leading to sparks that ignited the blaze.
Tragic Outcome
Efforts to contain the fire resulted in both men sustaining severe burn and smoke injuries, necessitating their transportation to hospitals in Tucson for treatment. Tragically, Neil Edward Hesse succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday morning at a local hospital, leaving behind a grieving family and community.
Impact of the Fire
Eyewitnesses corroborated reports from the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, confirming that several propane tanks exploded during the blaze. The fire, which initially began as a structure fire on Monday night, rapidly escalated, engulfing nearby brush and posing a significant threat to the surrounding area.
Whetstone Fire Chief Sam Foster lamented the widespread destruction caused by the fire, revealing that three homes, multiple outbuildings, and approximately a dozen vehicles were consumed in its path.
Conclusion: Mourning a Loss, Reflecting on Safety
The devastating consequences of the Bowers Fire serve as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, especially during periods of heightened fire risk. As communities mourn the loss of Neil Edward Hesse and extend their thoughts to his injured son and their family, authorities urge vigilance and caution in all activities that could potentially spark wildfires.
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