The Ferguson Fire near Yosemite National Park in California has claimed the life of a former wildland firefighter for the Larimer County Sheriff's Office.

Brian Hughes, 33, was the captain of the Arrowhead Hotshots - an elite team of experienced firefighters - as they were battling a blaze that has destroyed hundreds of homes in the area and has claimed seven lifes. Hughes was killed after being struck by a tree.

According to the Coloradoan, Brian was a wildland firefighter for the Larimer County Sheriff's Department from 2004-2007. He was also a member of the Roosevelt Hotshots in Fort Collins.

Brian leaves behind a fiance' with a child on the way.

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