Body of fallen firefighter returns to Utah

DRAPER – The body of a fallen firefighter who died fighting the Mendocino Complex Fire in California returns to Utah with a hero’s salute.

The body of Draper Fire Battalion Chief Matt Burchett landed at the Utah National Guard Air Base on a military jet.

“I brought out my family so that they can be taught to honor our first responders,” one man said.

Hundreds of people gathered on overpasses, as the procession of cars and trucks brought the chief’s body to a Draper funeral home.

“He was a wonderful husband, wonderful father, a wonderful sibling and son, and a wonderful friend,” said fellow firefighter and family friend Jay Torgersen.

“Matt was a skier, and a runner, and he loved to be outside. He fished with his family and his friends,” Torgersen said. “The state of Utah was his love.”

Burchett’s funeral is scheduled for Monday at the Maverik Center in West Valley City.

Donations for Chief Burchett’s family can be made at UtahFES.org.

Follow @kslpetersamore