July 31, 2024 3:40 a.m.

Governor Tina Kotek has ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff through sunset on Thursday in memorial of James Bailey Maxwell.

Maxwell, an Idaho resident, was piloting a single engine air tanker in the vicinity of the Falls Fire located near Senaca, on the Malheur National Forest. The SEAT went missing the evening of July 25th and was recovered by Grant and Harney County sheriff search and rescue, and personnel assigned to the fire on the morning of July 26th.

Kotek said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Mr. Maxwell while he fought the Falls Fire. On behalf of Oregon, I want to extend my condolences to Mr. Maxwell’s family, loved ones, and fellow firefighters”. Kotek said, “I would also like to thank the search and rescue team for their quick recovery efforts to bring Mr. Maxwell home”.