Brenna Kulikowski and Damon Thompson die in fatal Show Low car crash.
Fatal Show Low car crash deaths of Brenna Kulikowski and Damon Thompson.
Ahead of the night, a tragic head-on collision claimed the lives of three individuals, including two emergency responders, on a rural stretch of Arizona road. The incident occurred late Sunday evening on State Route 260, located between Heber-Overgaard and Show Low.
Investigators from the Arizona Department of Public Safety arrived at the scene after being alerted about the accident involving a medical vehicle and another automobile. According to preliminary findings, the other vehicle was moving westbound and crossed into the opposite lane, resulting in a direct impact with the Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District ambulance.
At the time of the crash, the two firefighters inside the ambulance were en route to deliver a patient to a medical facility for transfer between institutions. All three occupants—two firefighters and the driver of the other vehicle—were pronounced deceased at the accident site.
Chief Randy Chevalier of the Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District expressed profound sorrow over the incident. He described the wreckage as severe and the scene as exceptionally gruesome, emphasizing that it was one of the most horrific accidents he has encountered in his career.
The identities of the two firefighters have been confirmed as Brenna Kulikowski, aged 31, and Damon Thompson, aged 21. Officials shared that Brenna had been a member of the department for three years, while Damon was in his first year, nearly completing his time with the team.
Colleagues and the community mourned the loss, with Chief Chevalier highlighting Brenna’s compassionate nature and skill as a paramedic. He also noted that Damon had always aspired to become a firefighter and was highly regarded for his abilities.
In response to the tragic event, the White Mountain Firefighters Association initiated a fundraising effort to support the families of the fallen heroes. Donations can be made through their official website, and a separate GoFundMe page has been created specifically for Damon Thompson.
The governor issued a statement, expressing deep condolences for the loss and honoring the firefighters’ dedication to public service. Her words were accompanied by thoughts of comfort for the families and colleagues affected by the tragedy.
Details regarding the other driver remain undisclosed, and the DPS continues to investigate the collision. Authorities temporarily closed State Route 260 near Clay Springs but reopened it on the following morning.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by emergency personnel as they carry out their life-saving duties.
