With profound sadness, family, friends, and the Madras, Oregon, community are mourning the tragic loss of Stacy Chiddix, 58, who died on July 20, 2026, while courageously working to protect his home and property from the advancing Brewer Fire in Jefferson County.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal incident occurred at approximately 1:47 p.m. near the north end of the wildfire. Authorities said Stacy was operating his personal ATV on steep terrain while taking proactive measures to defend his property from the approaching flames. During the effort, he was ejected from the vehicle, which overturned and pinned him beneath it.
Friends who were with Stacy immediately rushed to free him from the overturned ATV and began life-saving measures while emergency responders were dispatched. Due to the challenging conditions created by the active wildfire and the rugged landscape, deputies, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and Frontier 911 dispatchers coordinated a complex rescue operation. Life Flight was placed on standby, and a landing zone was prepared should air transport become possible. Despite the determined efforts of everyone involved, Stacy tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Jefferson County Sheriff Jason Pollock emphasized that Stacy was not riding his ATV recreationally but was making every effort to protect the place he called home. “Stacy wasn’t out recreating on his ATV,” the sheriff said. “He was doing everything he could to protect the place he called home, and the memories that go along with his home.” The sheriff also extended condolences to Stacy’s family and expressed gratitude to the friends, firefighters, deputies, dispatchers, and emergency medical personnel who responded under extremely difficult circumstances.
Stacy’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the extraordinary risks faced by residents when wildfires threaten homes and livelihoods. While authorities continue encouraging residents to evacuate when instructed, they also recognize the deep emotional connection many people have to the homes, land, and memories they strive to protect.
As loved ones grieve, they remember Stacy not for the tragedy that claimed his life but for the man he was. He is remembered as hardworking, determined, and deeply devoted to his family, his property, and his community. His willingness to stand and defend what he loved reflected a quiet courage and resilience that inspired those around him.
The Madras community now joins together in honoring Stacy’s life and supporting his family through this unimaginable loss. Friends and neighbors continue to express their appreciation for his strength, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those he cared about.
Heartfelt condolences are extended to Stacy Chiddix’s family, friends, and everyone affected by his passing. May they find comfort in the memories they shared, strength in the support of their community, and peace in knowing that Stacy’s legacy of courage, dedication, and selflessness will never be forgotten.
Rest in eternal peace, Stacy Chiddix. Your love for your home, your determination in the face of adversity, and your enduring spirit will remain an inspiration to all who knew you. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.