Alberta charges Forestry Ministry over wildland firefighter's 2024 death in Jasper
Morgan Kitchen, 24, died after being struck by a tree while battling the Jasper wildfire. Six workplace safety violations alleged.
Sources · local media reports
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Alberta's Ministry of Forestry and Parks faces six charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act over the death of wildland firefighter Morgan Kitchen, 24, of Calgary, who was fatally struck by a tree on August 3, 2024, while fighting the Jasper wildfire.
The charges allege the province failed to adequately assess and control workplace hazards, failed to train workers properly, and did not take reasonable steps to prevent harm — such as cutting down hazardous trees or establishing no-work zones.
James Gault, vice-president of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, which represents wildland firefighters, said the union is glad the province is facing charges. "Our members are in dangerous situations," Gault told reporters Tuesday. "What we have to remember first is Morgan Kitchen was a person, right? He's not a statistic. It's a reminder that our members face risk every day that they go to work."
The province said it will not comment further on the allegations as the matter is now before the courts. "Safety is our highest priority. We remain committed to providing a safe workplace for our staff," said Arthur Green, press secretary for the Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services.
The 2024 Jasper Wildfire Complex destroyed 358 structures in the Jasper townsite — about one-third of its total buildings.
What are the potential penalties if the ministry is found guilty?
Has the province made any changes to wildland firefighter safety protocols since Kitchen's death?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Who was the wildland firefighter who died in the Jasper wildfire?
Morgan Kitchen, 24, of Calgary, was fatally struck by a tree on August 3, 2024, while fighting the Jasper wildfire.
How many charges does Alberta's Ministry of Forestry and Parks face?
Alberta's Ministry of Forestry and Parks faces six charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act over Morgan Kitchen's death.
What did the Jasper wildfire destroy?
The 2024 Jasper Wildfire Complex destroyed 358 structures in the Jasper townsite, approximately one-third of its total buildings.
