Tragic Loss: Fourth Wildfire Fatality in Portugal as Sabugal Firefighter Succumbs to Injuries

Man Dies After Severe Burns in Sabugal Wildfire

A 45-year-old man, who was critically injured in a wildfire in Sabugal on Tuesday, has passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, according to a hospital source speaking to Lusa news agency.

The victim, an employee of Afocelca—a forest protection company owned by the pulp industry groups Altri and Navigator—suffered severe burns while fighting the blaze in the Sabugal municipality. He was initially stabilized by emergency teams at the scene and then airlifted by an INEM helicopter to São João Hospital in Porto.

Medical reports indicate that the man had 75% of his body burned and pre-existing comorbidities, which contributed to his grave condition. The hospital source confirmed, "He died this morning due to the severe state he was in."

This incident marks the fourth fatality from wildfires in Portugal this year, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by firefighters and emergency responders during the peak fire season. The community and authorities are mourning this loss, emphasizing the dangers of wildfire combat operations.