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Tragedy in Ercilla: Forest Firefighter Dies Battling Blaze

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In a tragic incident on Thursday evening, the death of Gabriel Toro, a brave forest firefighter battling the "Huequén" wildfire in the commune of Ercilla, was confirmed. Initial reports indicate that the accident occurred when Toro was struck by a tree, causing fatal injuries despite medical efforts at the Hospital San José de Victoria.

Gabriel Toro, a member of the Mapuche community Juan Antinao and an employee of the Compañía Manufacturera de Papeles y Cartones (CMPC), is remembered for his dedication and bravery in protecting forests.

The regional presidential delegate, Eduardo Abdala, confirmed the news and expressed condolences to the firefighter's family, reviving the painful memory of the fire at Fundo Moncoles, where three firefighters from the same company lost their lives last January.

This incident highlights the dangers faced by forest firefighters in their daily work and the need to continue improving safety measures to protect those who dedicate themselves to battling wildfires.

It is worth recalling that on January 19, three firefighters, who worked for the company Servicios Forestales Nacimiento (Serfonac), lost their lives. They were identified as Duban Alejandro Ignacio Olate Farías, 22; José Luis Quezada Barra, 44; and Cristián Alexis Guerra Acuña, 43," authorities added regarding the victims' identities.

The three died while fighting a wildfire in the commune of Los Sauces, in the La Araucanía Region.