Raft River firefighter killed in accident identified; Gov. orders flags at half mast

NOTE: This article was originally published on Local News 8

CASSIA COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) - The name of the volunteer Raft River firefighter who died Monday from injuries suffered in a fire truck accident was released by the Bannock County Coroner’s Office.

24-year-old Joseph Wyatt Gates and another firefighter were in the fire truck when it went off East Yale Road in Cassia County and crashed Monday night.

According to the Cassia County Sheriff’s Office, both firefighters sustained serious injuries and were flown to Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello. Gov. Brad Little directed that U.S. and State of Idaho flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of Gates’ life.

“I join many Idahoans in expressing deep sadness by the tragic loss of Joseph Wyatt Gates, a brave firefighter who died in the line of duty,” Little said. “Please keep the Gates family, the other injured firefighter, and all of our brave first responders in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s office.

Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner released Gates’ name on Thursday.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew and cherished Joseph, and may God bless his family,” Danner said.

Danner also noted Gates’ commitment to serving the community, as well as his courage and dedication to the fire service through his volunteer work. The flags will remain at half-mast until the day after Gates’ memorial service, which has not yet been announced.