The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a man who died while fighting a wildfire near Sechelt on July 5, 2015.

He was John Joe Phare, aged 60, of Roberts Creek.

Mr. Phare was contracted to the BC Wildfire Service and was working on the Old Sechelt Mine fire near Sechelt, felling trees. At about 11:45 a.m. on July 5, 2015, he was struck by a falling tree. He was deceased at the scene.

The BC Coroners Service, WorkSafeBC, the BC Wildfire Service and RCMP are co-ordinating their investigative efforts to determine the circumstance that led to this individual’s death.

The family of Mr. Phare has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

For further information, please contact:

Barb McLintock
Coroner, Strategic Programs
BC Coroners Service
250-356-9253