The West Virginia Division of Forestry honors the memory and legacy of Cody Mullens.
Mullens, 28, of Mt. Hope, was a firefighter with the WV DOF. On Thursday, April 13, 2023 he was killed while fighting a brush fire near Montgomery. Mullens was actively working to establish a fire line to contain the forest fire when the accident occurred. He had 3 years and 237 days of service with the Division.
“Our state foresters put their lives on the line to protect our communities from wildfires, and we owe them all, especially Cody, an enormous debt of gratitude,” said Gov. Jim Justice, who ordered state flags to be displayed at half staff to honor the fallen firefighter.
As a Forester 3 and a Nationally Certified Type 2 Wildland Fighter, Mullens was responsible for enforcing fire laws, suppressing and investigating wildfires, inspecting logging operations and assisting landowners with forestry related questions. In Fayette County, he was responsible for supervising the fire patroller and enforcing the Logging Sediment Control Act. He also conducted training for safety, logging and fire prevention and suppression.
Mullens had been passionate about forestry since high school. He was a 2012 graduate of the Forestry Program at Nicholas County Career and Technical Center and a 2013 graduate of Nicholas County High School. He graduated from Glenville State College with an Associate’s Degree in Forest Technologies in March 2019.
He served an internship with the WV DOF from May to August 2018 before joining the Division after college.
Mullens was passionate about protecting our forests. We can honor his legacy and avoid future tragedy by staying informed of fire conditions and understanding and observing fire seasons and other laws.
“On behalf of the West Virginia Department of Commerce, myself and my family, we offer our sincerest condolences on the tragic loss of Forester Cody Mullens,” said James Bailey, Cabinet Secretary for the WV Department of Commerce. “Our hearts are with Cody’s family, friends, his community, and the entire Division of Forestry as we mourn his loss. Cody’s bravery and dedication to protecting the people and forests of West Virginia will not be forgotten.”
Stay Informed
The WV DOF closely monitors fire danger throughout the state. We dedicate our new Daily Fire Report to Cody Mullens and his tireless efforts to keep West Virginia safe.
The interactive platform, separated into six regions, enables users to view affected areas where wildfires have occurred or are actively occurring. Users will be able to see the importance and the impact of West Virginia state fire code laws we have in place.”
“Cody was dedicated to protecting and preserving our forests. We honor his spirit and bravery. We can continue his legacy by remaining vigilant and observing fire burning restrictions and regulations,” said Tony Evans, Acting Director/State Forester.
For details on Spring and Fall Fire Seasons and other information, consult the Burning Season Guidelines.
