Severely burned firefighter from Puyallup is improving at Harborview
SEATTLE -- A firefighter injured battling a wildfire in central Washington has been upgraded from critical to serious condition.
A spokeswoman for Harborview Medical Center said Saturday that 25-year-old Daniel Lyon is alert and breathing on his own.
He's undergone two successful burn surgeries, and more are planned. He remains in intensive care.
Lyon had burns on more than 60 percent of his body.
His family released this statement on Saturday:
"Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the fallen firefighters Andrew Zajac, Rick Wheeler, and Tommy Zbyszewski. Prior to this tragedy, Daniel spoke very highly of them. He was very proud to be part of a team doing such important work in protecting communities and saving lives.
Daniel continues to progress and we express our deep thanks for your kind notes of support and well wishes for his recovery."
Lyon was one of four firefighters injured when flames overtook them on Aug. 19. The other three injured firefighters have been treated and released.
Three other firefighters who died while battling the Okanogan complex of wildfires last week will be remembered at a memorial service held at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Toyota Center in Wenatchee.