Officials have confirmed that 19 firefighters died battling a fast-moving wildfire in Arizona.

Arizona State forestry officials confirmed Sunday night that 19 firefighters have died in the Yarnell Hill Fire that has ripped through half of the town. It is the state's worst ever wildfire firefighter tragedy.19 fire shelters deployed. Some of them were found inside their shelters, which are tent-like structures meant to shield firefighters from flames and heat. They are typically used as a last resort.

These firefighters were members of a "hotshot" crew who usually specialize in attacking wildfires like this one. They are described as the "core" of the fire department.

In addition to the 19 that have passed, eight more were in serious condition in the hospital being treated as of early Monday morning, and about 250 homes have been destroyed.

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