Provo firefighter dies after falling 30 to 50 feet while hiking in southern Utah

GARFIELD COUNTY, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A man who was a firefighter and paramedic with Provo Fire & Rescue died after an "accident in the Escalante area of Southern Utah," according to officials.

Aaron White, 39, died in southern Utah on Saturday, Nov. 9, and Provo Fire & Rescue made the announcement of his death on social media on the evening of Sunday, Nov. 10.

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Wade Matthews with the Garfield County Sheriff's Office told ABC4.com that the incident happened around 6 p.m. on Nov. 9, when White and two others were hiking in the Big Horn Canyon area off of Hole in the Rock Road .

Matthews said White fell about 30 to 50 feet, and his friends called for help. Another hiking group arrived, but White died at the scene. He was taken to the medical examiner's office, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

"His absence will be keenly felt," Provo Fire & Rescue wrote. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time."

White was said to have been a valuable team member with a "positive attitude and infectious smile." Officials said White inspired the department, and they feel his loss deeply.

White also worked part-time with the Mapleton City Fire Department for the past seven years. He is survived by his wife and children, according to officials.

There is no further information at this time.