Fatal ATV Crash During Brewer Fire Response Claims Life of Madras Resident

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ore. — July 20, 2026 — A tragic ATV accident during efforts to protect property from the advancing Brewer Fire has resulted in the death of a 58-year-old Madras man, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 1:47 p.m. after receiving a report of an ATV crash on private property near the northern edge of the Brewer Fire. Authorities said the incident occurred while Stacy Chiddix of Madras was taking steps to defend his property from the approaching wildfire.

Investigators determined that Chiddix was operating his personal ATV on steep terrain when he was thrown from the vehicle. The ATV overturned during the crash and pinned him underneath. Friends who were with him immediately responded, working to free him from beneath the vehicle and beginning life-saving efforts while emergency assistance was requested.

Because of the remote location, rugged landscape, and ongoing wildfire conditions, responders faced significant challenges reaching the scene. Emergency personnel used off-road vehicles to access the area safely and quickly. Despite the efforts of those at the scene and the emergency crews who responded, Chiddix suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Frontier 911 dispatchers played a key role in coordinating the response, maintaining communication with people at the scene, directing emergency resources through difficult terrain, placing Life Flight on standby, and preparing a possible landing zone if air transportation became available.

Jefferson County Sheriff Jason Pollock expressed condolences to Chiddix’s family, friends, and everyone affected by the tragedy. He emphasized that Chiddix was not riding for recreation but was working to protect his home and the memories connected to it.

Officials continue to remind residents that wildfire areas can be extremely dangerous due to changing conditions, smoke, terrain hazards, and emergency operations. While evacuations are strongly encouraged when ordered, property owners who remain should exercise extreme caution and stay aware of rapidly changing risks.