Dariel Vasquez, an 18-year-old New York State Parks Department employee, lost his life while fighting a forest on Saturday. The fire was active in Passaic County, New Jersey, near New York Borer.
Following the heartbreaking news, people are honoring Dariel Vasquez's dedication to the community and have raised over $43,000 through a fundraiser.
According to CBS, the fire officials revealed that Vasquez was killed by a falling tree while battling the blaze.
Following his tragic death, Dariel Vasquez's family has set up a fundraiser to help them in this difficult time. They have called him a "community hero" as he was "courageously battling a wildfire in Sterling Forest" during his final moments. He sacrificed his life to protect the community from the fire.
The statement further read,
"Dariel was a young man full of promise, hope, and dedication. Born into a family known for community service, Dariel embraced this legacy wholeheartedly. He was not only an admired figure in his community but a guiding light for his family."
Dariel Vasquez was a senior in high school and the baseball team captain.
"He had big dreams for the future, with plans to begin college this coming January, a journey he approached with the same dedication he brought to every role in his life."
The funds raised with GoFundMe will help his family with unexpected expenses. They have so far raised $45,794 with the help of about 1,000 donations. While their goal was to raise $10,000, the community has showered them with immense support.
A netizen shared several photos of Vascueq and gave a heartfelt tribute.
"Today, our community mourns the tragic loss of Dariel Vasquez, a dedicated New York State Parks worker and Ramapo High School baseball star, who gave his life battling the Jennings Creek Wildfire that spread from New Jersey into New York. His bravery and commitment to protecting our community will never be forgotten," the netizen wrote.
More about the brush fire that killed Dariel Vasquez
Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, also addressed the tragic passing of Dariel Vasquez. In a statement, she penned how the teenager worked with sheer dedication to protect the community.
"My prayers go out to his family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time. I commend his dedication to serving and protecting his fellow New Yorkers, and his bravery on the front lines."
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The New Jersey Forest Fire Service also revealed that the Jennings Creek brush fire is ablaze on the Greenwood Lake Turnpike and Eash Shore Road in West Milford and has also covered Orange County in New York.
The fire has spread over 3,000 acres and is allegedly only 10% contained.
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