August 7, 2023 - SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the deaths of CAL FIRE Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, CAL FIRE Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and contract Pilot Tony Sousa, who were killed in a midair collision while engaged in firefighting operations on the Broadway Fire in Riverside County on Sunday:

“On behalf of all Californians, our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the loved ones, friends and CAL FIRE colleagues mourning the loss of Assistant Chief Bischof, Fire Captain Rodriguez, and Pilot Sousa. This terrible tragedy is a reminder of the dangers our courageous firefighters face daily while working to keep our communities safe. We owe them our deepest respect and gratitude and will always honor their bravery and sacrifices.”

In honor of Assistant Chief Bischof, Fire Captain Rodriguez, and Pilot Sousa, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

Per CAL FIRE:
It is with great sadness that CAL FIRE shares the tragic loss of our employees who perished in a midair collision yesterday evening while fighting the Broadway fire in Riverside County. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and Exclusive Use Helicopter Pilot Tony Sousa.


Source: Office of the Governor and CAL FIRE