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TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2003

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has launched an investigation into the prescribed burn in which a Rick Lupe, White Mountain Apache firefighter, was seriously burned, the tribe announced on Monday.

The prescribed burn designed to reduce fuel loads and provide openings for wildlife and livestock to meet the tribe's Wildlife and Outdoor Recreation and Cattle Association objectives for the area involved. The plan was approved by the BIA Western Regional Director in April, 2001, the tribe said.

The burn went off as planned on May 12 and was expected to continue through most of May 14. BIA fire staff on site were monitoring the progress of the burn throughout and were in a holding mode dispersed in various portions of the burn on the afternoon of May 14, when the incident occurred.

At approximately 2:30 pm, the lookout reported increased activity on the southeast portion of the burn. Lupe somehow entered a 30-acre unburned area and it experienced "extreme fire behavior," the tribe reported. The area burned at "extremely high temperatures," the tribe said.

The Interagency Accident Investigation Team arrived on the reservation last week. The team has inspected the incident site, gathered most applicable documentation and is currently conducting interviews of witnesses as the investigation continues.

Lupe, a key witness, is being treated at the the Maricopa Medical Burn Center in Phoenix. He suffered extensive burns over 33% of his body, most seriously on his head, hands, arms and upper legs, the tribe said. He is unable to speak at this time.

The 100 Club, a nonprofit organization established to provide assistance to injured firefighters and law enforcement officers, has established an account for Lupe and his family. Donations may to in Account #468902 at the Arizona Federal Credit Union. Many local banks and other financial institutions will also accept donations for the account. Credit card donations can be made in Rick Lupe's name on the Internet at http://www.azfcu.org

Relevant Links:
White Mountain Apache Tribe - http://www.wmat.nsn.us

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