Nuevo, CA – Firefighter Daniel “Danny” Cook Dies in Line of Duty at Riverside County House Fire
Fire Apparatus Engineer Daniel “Danny” Cook, a dedicated member of the CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department, tragically passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2026, while responding to a house fire in Nuevo, California. Cook, 45, was battling a blaze in the attached garage of a two-story home located at 31300 Marcuchio Road when he suddenly collapsed. The fire had been reported around 5:30 a.m., and Cook’s team was actively working to contain the flames when he suffered a medical emergency. Despite efforts to revive him, Cook was transported to a regional hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The loss of Cook has left the fire department, the community, and his colleagues devastated.
The fire, which broke out early in the morning, caused minor injuries to two residents of the home, a man and a woman. They suffered superficial burns and smoke inhalation and were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Thanks to the swift response of first responders, both residents are expected to recover. However, the tragic death of Daniel Cook has overshadowed the event. The CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department released a statement describing his passing as a “devastating loss” not only to the agency but also to the entire fire service and the community he served so diligently. Cook’s dedication to his work and his professionalism were highlighted as integral to the department’s mission and values.
Daniel Cook had been a loyal member of CAL FIRE since June 2006, serving the community for nearly two decades. His death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fellow firefighters, public officials, and citizens alike. California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his sorrow, noting that Cook’s service and ultimate sacrifice would “never be forgotten.” In honor of Cook’s life and legacy, Newsom ordered flags at the state Capitol to be flown at half-staff. Cook is survived by his wife and three children, who now face the heartbreaking reality of living without their devoted husband and father. The fire department has promised to continue to support Cook’s family during this incredibly difficult time, as they mourn the loss of a hero who gave everything to protect others.
