STATE News:

Albuquerque – New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez released the following statement this morning about the tragic deaths of Arizona Hotshot Firefighters this weekend in the Yarnell Hill Fire in Central Arizona:

“I was saddened to hear the news about the deaths of 19 wildland firefighters in Arizona, members of the Granite Mountain Hot Shots, based in Prescott. They were killed when the wind suddenly shifted as they fought the fast-moving Yarnell Hill Fire, sparked by lightning.

“For New Mexicans, this news hits especially close to home because just a few short weeks ago, those Granite Mountain Hot Shots were in New Mexico, battling to protect lives and property during the Thompson Ridge Fire in Jemez, New Mexico.

“I join New Mexicans in keeping the families of these fallen firefighters in our thoughts and prayers. They are heroes who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others, and for that, we are forever grateful.

“Individuals who serve in the fire service share a strong, unbreakable bond and I join firefighters throughout New Mexico, Arizona, and these United States, in grieving for their fallen brothers and sisters.

“This is a reminder that this is very dangerous work, and we have thousands of men and women on the front lines in New Mexico today. As we prepare for our Fourth of July celebrations, it’s important to keep our fire crews and first responders in our prayers. We want them to return safely to their loved ones.”