Experienced firefighter James C. Ward died while fighting a wildfire in Scott County, Virginia.

Ward collapsed on the scene and was pronounced dead at a Tennessee medical center.

He served as a Virginia Department of Forestry firefighter for 26 years, and is survived by his wife and son.

State Forester Rob Farrell called for wildfire prevention to protect first responders following the incident.

An unrelated wildfire continues to burn over 14 acres near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford County.

The cause of the fire leading to Ward's death is being investigated, amid a spate of over 30 wildfires in the region.

The Virginia Department of Forestry is in mourning and has requested thoughts and prayers for Ward's family and colleagues.