Sacramento, California - Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued the following statement regarding the death of U.S. Forest Service Firefighter Mike Hallenbeck:

“This tragedy reminds us of the dangers firefighters face every time they suit up. Anne and I are grateful for U.S. Forest Service Firefighter Mike Hallenbeck’s service and on behalf of all Californians, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Hallenbeck, 21, of Shingle Springs, California, served in the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. He died today from injuries sustained while battling the Sierra Fire in El Dorado County. 

Hallenbeck is survived by his parents, Toni and Kirby Hallenbeck, and sister, Jessica Hallenbeck.

In honor of Firefighter Hallenbeck, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.