Story perspectives

Frijoles Fire Crew Member Dies During Emergency Response

8/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Randy Lupe, a 62-year-old San Carlos Apache crew member, died from an emergency while fighting the Frijoles Fire in New Mexico.
The Frijoles Fire has burned 15,200 acres in the Santa Fe National Forest and is 46% contained.
U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy said the loss is felt across the wildland fire community.
The Interior Department is not releasing further medical details while facilitating support for Lupe’s family and coworkers.

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Story summary

Randy Lupe, a 62-year-old San Carlos Apache crew member, died from an emergency while fighting the Frijoles Fire in New Mexico.
The Frijoles Fire has burned 15,200 acres in the Santa Fe National Forest and is 46% contained.
U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy said the loss is felt across the wildland fire community.
The Interior Department is not releasing further medical details while facilitating support for Lupe’s family and coworkers.