The National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) has expressed “deep sorrow” over the death of Daniel Esteves, an operative from Afocelca, a forest protection company, in a statement released to the media.
The man had been hospitalized at Hospital de São João, Porto, since August 19, suffering severe injuries sustained while battling the flames in the Sabugal fire.
The victim, who sustained burns on 75% of his body, succumbed to his injuries and passed away early this morning.
“Daniel was part of Afocelca’s team within the special rural fire combat device (DECIR/2025) and, like many other operatives, performed his duty with courage, dedication, and a high sense of responsibility,” the statement continues.
The authority extends “its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and AFOCELCA during this time of pain and mourning.”
“We remember with immense gratitude the generous, professional, and always selfless manner in which thousands of operatives engage daily in this national effort to protect forests from fires,” concludes the ANEPC statement.
It should be noted that the operative was transferred to Hospital de São João, Porto, and remained in a “critical clinical condition” by Thursday.
The victim was stabilized at the scene by emergency teams and was later transported by INEM helicopter to Hospital de São João, Porto, where he ultimately passed away. He is the fourth fatality from the fires this year.
President of the Republic Expresses Condolences Over the Death of Daniel Esteves
In a brief note published on the Presidency of the Republic’s website, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa also extended his “heartfelt condolences to the family of Daniel Esteves, a Forest Ranger from Afocelca, who tragically lost his life as a result of direct efforts against the forest fires in the Sabugal area.”
The deceased’s company also issued a note of mourning, sending “the most sincere condolences to the worker’s family, colleagues, and friends,” indicating its “readiness to provide all necessary support.”
Altri, an associated company of Afocelca, conveyed “to Daniel’s family, friends, and colleagues, the most sincere condolences,” also stating in a communiqué that it is “available to, together with Afocelca, provide all necessary support.”
